What is required to certify a driver with mild aortic stenosis?

The requirement to certify a driver with mild aortic stenosis includes specific health checks to ensure that the driver is not at an elevated risk for complications that could affect their ability to operate a commercial vehicle safely.

For a driver diagnosed with mild aortic stenosis, being asymptomatic is crucial because this indicates that the condition is not currently affecting the driver's health or functionality. If a driver remains asymptomatic, the next step is ensuring regular monitoring, which is why an echocardiogram (Echo) every five years is recommended. This imaging test allows healthcare providers to keep an eye on the heart's structure and function, ensuring that any changes in the condition can be detected early.

Additionally, an annual cardiovascular examination is important to monitor overall heart health, ensuring that even if the aortic stenosis remains mild, any new symptoms or risk factors are addressed promptly. This combination of being asymptomatic, regular echocardiograms, and annual check-ups ensures a comprehensive approach to the driver's cardiovascular health without putting themselves or others on the road at risk.