Hypoxia and increased sympathetic activation may increase the risk of cardiac arrhythmias at high altitude2; however, the incidence of significant arrhythmias during air travel is rare.
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Advice for Travelling with Heart ArrhythmiaIt is always important to be aware of factors that may impact a heart arrhythmia whilst flying, one of which is becoming dehydrated, which can worsen symptoms of arrhythmia if not avoided.
Whilst people with arrhythmia are generally safe to fly, it is crucial to discuss your travel plans with your GP before you book. Those living with heart conditions may have an increased risk of developing deep vein thrombosis (DVT) on a flight, so taking steps to reduce this risk could be critical.
One of the biggest risks for people with heart disease who are flying is developing venous thrombosis. These risks are higher if you have CAD or an implanted heart device, such as an artificial heart valve or a coronary stent. 3 And if you have an arrhythmia, a blood clot in your heart can lead to a stroke.
Myocarditis causes a weakening of the heart, which makes it unable to pump enough blood to the rest of the body and increases the probability of blood clots occurring in the heart, leading to a stroke or a heart attack. The act of flying and the conditions inside a commercial plane cabin further exacerbate these risks.
recent operation or injury where trapped air or gas may be present in the body (e.g. stomach ,bowel, eyes, face, brain) severe long term diseases that affect your breathing. breathlessness at rest. unresolved pneumothorax (punctured lung)
The cramped conditions and long periods of being less active on a flight can cause pain, stiffness or swelling of your legs. Being less active can lead to slow blood flow in your veins which increases your risk of developing a blood clot, known as deep vein thrombosis (DVT). DVTs most commonly form in the legs.