Traveling with Heart Disease: Essential Tips

Preparation Before You Travel

Traveling with heart disease can be challenging, but with proper preparation, it is often safe to travel abroad. If you have experienced a heart attack or stroke, it is important to wait 6-8 weeks before planning your trip.

Medications

To ensure a smooth journey, start by creating an up-to-date list of your medications, including both brand names and generic names. Always pack your medications in your hand luggage to avoid issues if your checked luggage is lost or delayed. Keep in mind that the limit for liquids in carry-on luggage is 100ml; any medication exceeding this limit will require prior approval from your airline and the airport. To be extra cautious, consider packing a spare supply of your medication and a copy of your prescription in your checked luggage.

Insurance

Verify that your health insurance is current and that all past and present conditions have been declared. Failure to disclose this information may lead to denied claims. If you are traveling in Europe, you can utilize the European Health Insurance Card, which provides access to free or reduced-cost medical care. More information can be found at https://www2.hse.ie/services/ehic/ehic.html.

Pacemaker or ICD Considerations

If you have a pacemaker or an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD), bring your device identification card with you. At security checkpoints, inform the personnel about your device and request to be screened with a handheld metal detector. If your device is monitored remotely, notify your cardiac center of your travel dates in advance.

During Your Travel

Airport Assistance

Consult your physiotherapist about whether you need airport assistance. The walk to your gate can be long, and anxiety about traveling may impact your energy levels. Consider booking assistance to alleviate stress for both yourself and your travel companions. More information can be found at https://www.dublinairport.com/at-the-airport/help-and-support.

Preventing DVT (Deep Venous Thrombosis)

Wearing properly fitted flight socks is recommended when traveling with heart disease. Consult your local pharmacist for the correct size. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water, and make it a point to stand and walk at regular intervals during the flight. While seated, you can perform ankle pumps by flexing your feet up and down.

Upon Arrival

Post-Arrival Tips

Store your heart medication in a cool place upon arrival and consider taking a short 15-minute walk to acclimate. Remember to stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, and avoid direct sunlight during midday hours. If you have scars from surgery, apply complete sunblock to protect them.

Be aware that at altitudes above 2000 meters, oxygen levels decrease, which may worsen angina or breathlessness. It is advisable to consult your physiotherapist before your trip to determine suitable activities and to ensure you are prepared to enjoy your travel experience as part of your rehabilitation journey.

Contact Information

Karen Cradock
Specialist Cardiac Physiotherapist
Heart 2 Heart Cardiac Physiotherapy
Stillorgan
www.h2hcardiacphysio.com
045484000 / 012103751
[email protected]