Info
U Thrive Portal
logo

Can I Fly with a Heart Problem?

Can I Fly with a Heart Problem?
Search Blog...
Contact Us

Traveling by air can be a convenient and fun way to reach your holiday destination. Still, for individuals with heart problems, it could prompt a much-needed discussion on health and safety concerns surrounding air travel. Learn whether or not flying can exacerbate heart issues and explore which heart conditions may limit your ability to fly.

Can Flying Worsen Existing Heart Problems?

Air travel poses unique challenges for anyone with cardiovascular conditions, mainly due to changes in cabin pressure and oxygen levels at high altitudes. These changes demand extra work from your heart muscle.

If you’re dealing with heart failure, coronary artery disease (CAD) or congenital heart disease, you might experience complications such as shortness of breath or chest pain.

Heart Conditions That Put You on the No-Fly List

Not all heart problems automatically disqualify you from flying. However, consult your physician before air travel if you have been diagnosed with any type of heart disease.

Their decision and yours depend on the type of heart disease you have, its severity and your stability. For instance, if you have uncontrolled heart failure or have recently experienced a heart attack or unstable angina (chest pain), you’re typically advised against flying.

On the other hand, those with stable heart conditions and no recent cardiac events might still be able to travel by air with their doctor's consent. Keep these tips in mind:

  • Consult with your physician before booking and boarding a flight.
  • Ensure your medications are up-to-date and you have sufficient medications onboard.
  • Know how to manage symptoms if they occur mid-flight.
  • Understand the nature and severity of your condition.

Does Flying Affect Your Heart?

Yes, flying can affect your heart, but it varies among individuals depending on their health and heart conditions. Lower oxygen levels and cabin pressure at cruising altitudes put additional demands on the heart, especially in ensuring efficient blood flow and oxygen delivery throughout the body. These flight conditions can lead to discomfort or potentially severe complications for those with existing heart conditions, where blood vessels are narrowed or blocked, or the heart cannot pump blood effectively.

Mitigating Risks: How to Prepare for Safe Air Travel

To ensure you enjoy a safer journey if you deal with heart problems, here are actionable steps to take:

  • Consult your doctor. Before planning your trip, have a thorough discussion with your healthcare provider about your travel fitness.

  • Manage your medications. Carry all necessary medications in your carry-on luggage. Also, consider wearing a medical alert bracelet that details your condition.

  • Move around. Perform simple leg exercises in place and take short walks if possible to improve circulation and reduce the risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), or blood clot.

  • Stay Hydrated. Drink plenty of water before and during the flight to help improve circulation and decrease the risk of blood clots.

If you have questions about air travel safety and your health, find a Union Health physician or call 812.238.7000 to make an appointment.



0 Comment(s) so far | Skip to comment form





Address Line 1:
Address Line 2:
City:
State:
Zip: