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Does flying affect congestive heart failure?

Those with severe or decompensated congestive heart failure should avoid flying commercially. Patients with implantable cardiac devices may need special attention when flying long distances. They can fly safely once medically stable.



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But there are some aspects of flying that can be problematic when you have certain heart conditions. When you have heart disease, air flight can lead to problems due to the confined space, low oxygen concentration, dehydration, air pressure, high altitude, and the potential for increased stress.

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angina or chest pain at rest. an infectious disease (e.g. chickenpox, flu), including COVID-19. decompression sickness after diving (sometimes called 'the bends') increased pressure in the brain (due to bleeding, injury or infection)

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If your blood pressure is higher than 120 over 80, seek medical advice before you travel.

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Ask your healthcare provider or check with the manufacturer to see if it's safe for you to go through security. If you need to carry any liquid medications or supplemental oxygen through security, ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist for a document explaining that you need to carry it on the plane with you.

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High altitude = 1,500–3,500 metres (4,900–11,500 ft) Very high altitude = 3,500–5,500 metres (11,500–18,000 ft) Extreme altitude = above 5,500 metres (18,000 ft)

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For people with vein disease (venous insufficiency), traveling short distances isn't usually problematic. But on a plane or car trip lasting several hours, the risk of blood clots, or deep vein thrombosis (DVT) increases.

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