What is one potential effect of untreated hypertension on a commercial driver’s health?

Untreated hypertension, or high blood pressure, has significant implications for a commercial driver's overall health. Chronic high blood pressure can cause damage to the cardiovascular system over time, leading to serious health issues such as heart disease and stroke. These conditions can severely impact a driver's ability to operate a vehicle safely and effectively.

Heart disease may cause symptoms like chest pain, fatigue, and shortness of breath, all of which can critically compromise a driver’s ability to concentrate and respond to road conditions. Additionally, a stroke can lead to sudden incapacitation or long-term disability, further affecting a person's capability to function as a commercial driver.

Furthermore, while hypertension can have mental health implications, it primarily poses physical health risks that can endanger both the driver and the public. Thus, recognizing the potential consequences of untreated hypertension is crucial in the context of maintaining safety standards in commercial driving.