Blood tests, blood pressure.. how much more

[Jkh14]

Hi Guys, not after a whinge but if someone has any advice or past experiences please let me know..send a message if you like.
Had a DUI offence going on 3 years ago. Low range and my only one. I totally accept C’s policy and have had blood test to prove I’m not an alcoholic every 3 months since then. None have ever been a problem but now they are worried about my blood pressure as every time I go in it gets higher since I’m that worried about all this s#!t. Questions are when will it end if ever? I live remotely so it’s not just duck to the dr for it it’s a full day and no pay and it’s starting to get expensive. Im 28 I’m fit. Maybe I need a new dame? I’m just about done with it all. Is there any other options or avenues I can go down?
Thanks.

[Fill-level]

Since when , does being done for drinking and driving, you have to have a blood test to prove your not a alco, who is forcing you to do this ?

[Jkh14]

Ca$a every 3 months full blood count, Liver function test and CDT carbohydrate deficiency transferrin.
I’ve never had a problem with a bad test and I’m more than happy to do one every medical if that’s the case but going on 3 years I’ve nearly had enough. Living on a station and no where near a dame and the costs involved is getting to much.

[Heli]

Try a different provider for your blood test: that can often lower the 'apprehension' rise that often occurs with tests. I had a heart specialist who was so negative (CASA treadmill test) that I changed to another chosen at random: first comment from the new guy was how low and healthy my BP is

[Vortexsting]

Removed my post as I was incorrect I thought dui was a traffic offence and didn’t have to declare however looked at casa website and you need to declare dui if occurred last 5 years.

In saying that though maybe once you have done 5 years of testing after applying you are in the clear?

[hand in pants]

Is it just me, or does anyone else think that caa has been getting increasingly nosey. My private life is my private life, none of their business. What I do in my own time has absolutely nothing to do with them. As long as I turn up to work fit and well and drug and alcohol free, I should be good to go.

The term "invasion of privacy" is starting to rare its ugly head.

[bigglesbutler]

I would second the idea of changing DAME or whoever is stressing you out, white coat hypertension is a real thing in that you get stressed and up the blood pressure goes. Find a nice calm and reassuring DAME to do the test. Alternatively phone the medical branch at CASA and have a chat, explain the situation and seek their advice, I did that recently and the lady was lovely. At the end of the day by talking to them you are showing a willingness to make things work, do it properly and ensure their rules are met.

Good luck

Si

[arrrj]

Jkh14,

a) if you have high blood pressure, this is easily fixed with medication. Taking such medication does not (should not) affect your CASA medical - other than the fact that when the DAME measures your BP, you will pass. And more likely live longer as well. I take it, and have for some years...after my DAME suggested I should. Well done to her.

b) regarding the DUI. I agree with the others. I would call CASA and have a chat. Explain your situation. It does seem pretty unreasonable, they may well understand.

That said, I am with HIP...as a bloke of a similar vintage, I am mindful of the ever increasing vigilance on my "health".

Arrrj

[flyingpascal]

Hello
Nervous about BP you are not alone !! at your next visite with DAME request the old system with stethoscope and pressure band not these moderne electronic blood pressure which always read higher
than normal BP ( they can sale more medication that way)

[Chopper Guy]

Mate

It'll come down to how wiling your DAME is to work with you but White Coat Hypertension is a medcially recognised condition.

I've bought myself a home blood pressure monitoring unit (about $50 from the chemist) and take 14 days worth or readings prior to my medical.

The last couple medicals I've had done, my DAME has reported these with a note to say that they were being used as opposed to in room readings.

[Twistgrip]

I’ve always suffered from white coat syndrome with BP. I too have a machine at home and take photos when I see my DAME as my readings at home are in the normal band but during medicals on the upper end of what CASA allow.

If your over you will get a letter from CASA asking you re check your BP with your doctor and if it’s ok send them a letter which shows your readings below 150/90. Or your doctor could order a 24hr BP monitor and results sent to CASA.