After a heart attack, it can be daunting and seemingly hazardous to travel via an airplane. Thankfully, being knowledgeable about one's condition and cardiovascular health can take away the fear of flying.
The National Health Services of the United Kingdom has provided information that can serve as a guide about flying after a heart attack.
People at low risk
The British Cardiovascular Society recommends that people who have very low risk of having another heart attack may be able to fly as early as three days after having one. You are considered to be at very low risk if:
- this is your first heart attack
- you are under 65
- you have no complications
- no further treatment is planned
The UK Civil Aviation Authority recommends that people with no complications, who are at low risk of another event, can fly seven to 10 days after a heart attack.
National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) guidance says that most people with heart failure can travel by plane. However, during the flight, legs and ankles tend to swell and breathing may become more difficult for people with severe heart failure. Again, check with your GP or heart specialist before planning any air travel.
People with complications
If you are older than 65 or you've had another heart attack in the past, you're more likely to have one again.
If you have no symptoms or other heart conditions and no further treatment is planned, you're considered to be at medium risk. In this case, the Civil Aviation Authority recommends that you may fly from 10 days after your recent heart attack.
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.
In all cases, speak to your GP or specialist before flying after you have had a heart attack. They may need to check how fit you are to make sure you can fly safely without developing symptoms such as chest pain.
Check with your travel operator, airline and travel insurance company before you fly, as they may have their own policies on flying after a heart attack.
Medication
If you're taking medication, your GP or specialist may advise you to carry essential medicines in your hand luggage. If so, contact your airline to check if they have any restrictions. If they do, you'll need to get a letter from your doctor and you may need to get a written agreement from the airline before you fly.
