The higher you are in the sky, the less oxygen your body will carry, and less oxygen means higher blood pressure. If you typically have a regular blood pressure or even a low blood pressure, this increase will likely have no effect on you.
Unstable heart disease is associated with a higher risk of adverse events due to flying, and you may need to avoid flying, at least temporarily, until your condition is well controlled. People with pacemakers or implantable defibrillators can fly safely.
Air travel increases the risk of developing blood clots in the veins of the legs, which can then enter the bloodstream and block an artery in the lungs, a condition called pulmonary embolism. In some cases, the opening can allow the blood clot to enter the arteries of the brain, causing a stroke.
Airline restrictions on flyingAirlines might not let you travel with them: if they are concerned that you have a medical condition that might get worse during a flight. if you have an illness that could infect other passengers.
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.
Airlines reserve the right to waive off any applicable penalties at their discretion. If you would like to cancel your flight due to medical reasons, please contact the airline directly with a copy of your medical certificate requesting them to waive any applicable cancellation fees.
If you were to experience a stroke on a plane, the pilot may attempt to make an emergency landing to get you the emergency medical attention you need. Although lives have been saved by emergency landings before, the time it takes for you to receive appropriate treatment may still be prolonged.