Can People with High Blood Pressure Learn to Drive?
4 Answers
According to the 'Regulations on the Application and Use of Motor Vehicle Driving Licenses,' there is no regulation prohibiting individuals with high blood pressure from obtaining a driver's license. However, if high blood pressure frequently causes symptoms such as headaches, drowsiness, or agitation, it is not advisable to pursue a driver's license, nor is it safe to drive for extended periods. Although individuals with high blood pressure can drive, the risks are significant. Therefore, when driving, they should pay attention to the following aspects: 1. Avoid long-distance driving as much as possible and minimize continuous driving time. Take a break of at least 10-15 minutes every two to three hours and stay hydrated. 2. In poor road conditions or heavy traffic, avoid getting angry. Instead, try singing or listening to soothing music. Singing loudly can enhance gas exchange and provide more oxygen to the heart and lungs. In areas with severe traffic congestion and poor air circulation, keep the car windows closed as much as possible, as harmful gases from heavy exhaust emissions may irritate blood vessels, causing spasms and potentially triggering heart disease. 3. Limit driving frequency, ideally not exceeding three days per week. If symptoms such as dizziness or chest tightness occur while driving, promptly park the car in a safe area and call 120 for assistance. Lastly, it is important to remind individuals with high blood pressure to monitor their blood pressure regularly and take prescribed antihypertensive medication consistently.
Of course, people with high blood pressure can learn to drive. I have friends who do this. But the key is to keep blood pressure stable at a safe level, such as keeping systolic blood pressure below 160 mmHg. This is because stress during driving lessons or hot weather can easily cause blood pressure to spike, potentially leading to dizziness, which is very dangerous. I recommend getting a comprehensive health check before enrolling in driving school, especially checking cardiovascular and cerebrovascular conditions. Avoid practicing during high-temperature periods, carry antihypertensive medication, and take a 20-minute break every hour to drink water. Instructors will proactively stop the lesson if they notice you looking unwell, which is quite considerate.
To be honest, I've seen quite a few examinees with high blood pressure taking driving tests. The most important things are taking medication on time and monitoring blood pressure regularly—ideally measuring it twice daily (morning and evening) and recording the data in a notebook. Absolutely avoid touching the steering wheel when systolic pressure exceeds 180. During stressful maneuvers like parallel parking or hill starts, remind yourself to take deep breaths and adjust the seat comfortably without slouching. It's advisable to keep some sugar-free mints for alertness, but smoking must be strictly avoided. Bring an electronic blood pressure monitor for the Category 2 test—if you feel nervous in the waiting area, check your pressure immediately. If it exceeds the limit, reschedule without hesitation—life is far more important than any driving test.
As someone who has had similar experiences, I want to say that the biggest fear when learning to drive with high blood pressure is sudden emergencies. Remember to inform your instructor about your condition when choosing one, and avoid those who tend to yell. If you feel your head swelling during practice, pull over immediately, open the window for fresh air, and don't push yourself. Pay special attention to your diet—avoid eating anything too salty before practice, and steer clear of pickles and ham. Keeping a can of low-sugar electrolyte drink in the car is very helpful; drink it in small amounts multiple times during practice. On the exam day, take your blood pressure medication an hour in advance, and take a walk to relax when you arrive at the test center instead of just sitting there. With proper preparation, getting a driver's license with high blood pressure is entirely feasible.
