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.
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Airplane Travel and Blood Oxygen SaturationLocal hypoxia causes vasodilation (decrease in blood pressure) and increased capillary permeability, as well as increased ventilatory effort and heart rate. One study found a passenger had a blood oxygen saturation of 94% at ground level and 85% at altitude.
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.
If you have signs and symptoms of heart failure and further treatment is planned, you are considered to be at high risk of another heart attack. In this case, you should wait until you are in a more stable condition before flying. Always speak to your GP or specialist before flying after you have had a heart attack.
Patients with severe or decompensated congestive heart failure (symptoms occur even when resting/any physical activity increases discomfort) should avoid flying. If travel cannot be avoided, on-board oxygen and medical assistance should be requested.
Severe episodes (massive embolism) present with collapse, severe breathlessness, and central chest pain. Symptoms of VTE commonly develop during or immediately after a flight, often while still in the airport.
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.
A 2021 study states that people with high blood pressure can travel to high altitudes unless they have uncontrolled blood pressure or heart problems. In these situations, it is essential to talk with their doctor, who can advise them on how to travel by air safely.
Results: An analysis of 534 autopsy reports revealed presence of cardiovascular abnormalities in 234 pilots (prevalence rate 43.82%). Coronary artery stenosis had a prevalence rate of 37.64%. There were 41 pilots who had evidence of severe atherosclerosis of the left coronary artery.
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.
Sitting down in a tight seat for 13+ hours can sometimes lead to circulation issues, including swelling in the feet. According to The Healthy, the chance of your body forming blood clots increases when blood isn't moving correctly, such as when onboard a long-haul flight.
Air travel itself does not cause paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia, atrial fibrillation, or atrial flutter. Patients who are asymptomatic or symptomatically stable should not be restrict- ed from flying.