Does flying trigger atrial fibrillation?

Q: For afib patients that plan to fly, what suggestions can you recommend? A: People worry that being in an airplane is going to trigger afib. It's a pressurized cabin at about 5,000-8,000 feet. Airplanes have enough oxygen where that shouldn't be a problem.



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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.

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Take your medications as prescribed
“If your doctor has not recommended that you take aspirin daily, it's not suggested that you take it when you travel to prevent blood clots,” Coogan said. “On the other hand, if you do take prescribed blood thinners, you should feel safe traveling.”

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