Every job comes with its own health risks, whether you’re working behind a desk or out in the open field. Truck driving is a bit unique in that it’s a job that takes place outside of the office, yet you spend much of it in a sitting position.  

It’s very important as a truck driver to take care of yourself. Doing so will not only allow you to perform your job better, but it will greatly improve your quality of life. Here are the risks you need to watch out for as a truck driver. 

Obesity 

Obesity is a serious issue that many Americans deal with. It’s important to understand that it isn’t just about your appearance. Obesity affects your overall health, including your heart, blood pressure, kidney function, joints, and more. Being overweight takes a harder toll on your body. 

Many truck drivers deal with obesity. It isn’t easy staying active when you spend so much of your time in a driver’s seat. Meanwhile, healthy eating options aren’t always widely available. Staying active and healthy on the road requires you to be mindful and creative. When it comes to eating, you sometimes have to plan ahead. 

Staying active and eating healthy will not only help you combat obesity, but it will leave you feeling better and more awake as well. 

Blood Pressure 

If you are obese, your risk of high blood pressure is increased. However, even at a normal (or subnormal) weight, you can have high blood pressure. For some, it’s hereditary, which means they have to be especially mindful of it. 

But anyone can develop high blood pressure from an unhealthy lifestyle. Your blood pressure can increase due to a lack of exercise or an excess of sugar, salt, and bad fats. Smoking is also a major contributor to blood pressure issues. 

High blood pressure increases your risk of a heart attack, and it can damage your kidneys. It can be combatted in a similar manner as obesity. Also, make sure to control your caffeine intake.  

Diabetes  

Diabetes is twice as high among truck drivers as it is compared to the rest of the working population. Much of this stems from poor diet and a lack of exercise. Diabetes can lead to serious issues down the road including heart disease, kidney failure, blindness, and numbness in your hands and feet. 

It may even require amputation. 

While some people are born with diabetes, 90% of people with diabetes have type 2, which develops later in life. People who are obese have a high-risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Once again, much of it comes down to diet and exercise. By taking care of yourself, you can avoid having to deal with this issue at all. 

Stress 

Truck driving can be stressful, especially during bad weather or traffic. There are deadlines to be made, and other drivers aren’t always great at sharing the road with tractor trailers. High stress can affect more than your attitude. It can result in poor sleep, high-blood pressure, depression, and more.  

Reducing stress isn’t always easy. Taking care of yourself, eating well, and getting a healthy amount of sleep can help. 

If you feel like you’re trying everything you can to reduce stress, and it’s simply not working, it might be time to switch to a different trucking company. At Woodruff Enterprises, we strive to provide a healthy working environment for our drivers. That includes consistent mileage, a smaller driving radius (500 miles), quality at home time, paid time off, and more. 

If you’re ready for a less stressful trucking job in Springfield, Ohio or other select cities, apply to Woodruff Enterprises today!