Travelling with a heart condition
Steps to be taken care before travelling for patients with a heart condition.
TRAVELLING WITH A HEART CONDITION
If you have a heart condition, you have to follow a lot of hidden rules in your daily life. These come in the form of limitations in your diet, exercise, sports activities, and so on. Travelling with a heart condition carries an extra amount of risk to it, in which case you have to take an extra amount of precautions. Here are some tips and guidelines on how to have a safe and splendid trip if you’re a heart patient
- Speak to your doctor
They will tell you whether or not they think you are fit to travel, and if so, what kind of activities you can safely take part in while you’re away
- Choose an appropriate destination
Your choice of destination is important. Extreme climates can put a strain on your heart, while high altitudes can also have an effect
- Plan in advance for air travel
You may need to have supplemental oxygen for your flight in which case, make sure you contact the airline before booking and check their policy to make appropriate arrangements
- Stick to your medication
You should always pack your medicine with you. It’s a good idea to bring enough for an extra couple of days, in case of any delays or cancellations.
Related articles:
How to Reduce Your Risk of Heart Diseases and Heart Attacks?
This page is written for general understanding and is not medical advice. It cannot take account of your own history, and a consultation is needed before any diagnosis or treatment. Written by Dr. Mahadevan R, MBBS, MS, MCh (CVTS), Chief Consultant Cardiothoracic Surgeon, Magnum Hospital, Thiruvananthapuram.