It can be daunting trying to arrange a holiday when you have a heart condition, but the British Heart Foundation pointed out it can actually be beneficial for patients, allowing them to rest, relax and unwind if they are able to properly plan it out with their new needs in mind.
The experts recommended checking with your GP to see if it’s safe for you to travel. If given the green light, the experts have put together a thorough travel checklist to minimise any potential impact on your heart while you’re away. The checklist includes the best types of accommodation and itineraries, as well as little-known complications heart conditions bring at the airport.
Accommodation
For those with heart conditions, it’s best to book accommodation that’s located near the attractions you intend to visit. This will reduce the strain on your heart from travelling to and from activities.
Choosing accommodations that are accessible, such as those with lifts, and close to healthcare facilities like pharmacies is also recommended. If you’re staying in a hotel and have mobility issues, the BHF suggests booking a room near reception, lifts or emergency exits.
Itinerary
A heart condition can greatly change what you’re able to do on holiday, particularly if you were previously an adrenaline junkie or activity-focused traveller. The specialists recommend: “Plan a relaxing holiday, do not go somewhere too difficult to walk, or take part in activities that are challenging, unless you’re confident you are fit enough.”
Contacts
It’s vital to note down local emergency numbers and find out how to access medical assistance in the area you’re visiting. Always carry contact details for your GP and relatives with you.
Medicines and equipment
For those flying with a pacemaker, ICD, or medical supplies in their carry-on, a letter from your GP and your device identification card may be necessary.
When travelling with medication, it’s advised to keep it in your hand luggage rather than checked baggage. The experts said: “It is essential you bring enough medicines with you to last throughout your holiday. Keep your medicines in your hand luggage if you are flying to your destination; some people keep a supply in their suitcase too. Keep an up-to-date list of all your medicines and doses in your purse or wallet, including the name and brand name in case you lose any of them.
“If you need to take medicines that are liquids, creams or gels over 100ml in your hand luggage, you’ll need a letter from your doctor and approval from the airline before you travel. You’ll also need to carry the medicines separately and declare it at security.”
You’ll probably need to plan ahead to organise sufficient medication to cover your entire trip well before you set off. Additionally, you can notify the airline of your requirements beforehand, and they’ll be able to assist you at the airport and throughout your flight.
Stress
Stress can trigger various heart conditions, and airports are arguably the most stressful part of any holiday. To minimise this impact, it’s advisable to plan thoroughly and arrive with plenty of time to spare, avoiding any last-minute rushing, whilst using wheeled luggage can prevent you from straining yourself with heavy bags.
Flying
Certain heart conditions, such as recent surgery or a heart attack, may make air travel inadvisable. The BHF specialists recommend consulting with your GP and cardiac consultant prior to your flight to confirm you’re suitable for air travel.
When travelling across time zones, this can disrupt your medication schedule. The specialists explained: “It may be difficult to keep to your pattern of taking your medicines. Take them as normal on the day you travel and then 12 hours later or as prescribed until you get used to your environment. Speak to your GP or practice nurse about how best to deal with this.”