Can You Fly with Heart Disease? Risks & Precautions

As Spring arrives, so does the busier travel season at airports across the nation. But can someone fly safely if they are diagnosed with heart disease?

While many people with heart conditions are able to travel by plane without issues, there are certain risks involved. Understanding these risks and taking proper precautions can make air travel safer and more comfortable for individuals with heart disease.

Flying involves several factors that can strain the body, especially the heart. The cabin pressure, reduced oxygen levels, and potential for dehydration can have a significant impact on cardiovascular health. These factors can be especially concerning for individuals who already have underlying heart conditions such as coronary artery disease, heart failure, arrhythmias, or a history of heart attacks.

Risks Associated with Flying for People with Heart Disease

Air travel is mostly safe for individuals with stable heart disease. One of the primary concerns during flight is the reduction in oxygen levels. Airplanes fly at high altitudes, and while the cabin is pressurized, the oxygen levels are still lower than those at sea level. For people with unstable heart disease, this drop in oxygen can increase the workload on the heart.

Sergiu Darabant, M.D., a cardiologist at Baptist Health Miami Cardiac & Vascular Institute.

"If you’ve been diagnosed with heart disease, but are taking the proper medication and making any necessary  lifestyle modifications, then you should have no problem with flying," explains Sergiu Darabant, M.D., a cardiologist at Baptist Health Miami Cardiac & Vascular Institute. "If you have concerns because you haven’t flown previously or haven’t in a long time, make sure to consult with your doctor."

The long periods of immobility during flights, particularly on long-haul trips, can also increase the risk of developing blood clots. Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), which occurs when a blood clot forms in a vein (often in the legs), is a well-known risk for anyone who remains sedentary for an extended period. For individuals with heart disease, DVT can be even more dangerous, as it can lead to a pulmonary embolism if the clot travels to the lungs.

Tips for Taking Extra Precautions Before Traveling by Plane

If you have heart disease and are planning to fly, there are several precautions you can take to ensure your trip is safe and comfortable.

1. Consult Your Doctor

Preventive cardiologist Rachel Eidelman, M.D., of Baptist Health Heart & Vascular Care.

Before booking your flight, it’s essential to consult your healthcare provider, especially if you have any recent or ongoing heart issues, explains cardiologist Rachel Eidelman, M.D., of Baptist Health Heart & Vascular Care, who is affiliated with Bethesda Hospital East and West.

Dr. Eidelman advises: "Your doctor can evaluate your current condition and determine whether it’s safe for you to fly. If your heart disease is well-managed and stable, flying may not pose a significant risk. However, if you have a recent heart attack, uncontrolled arrhythmias, or severe heart failure, flying could be dangerous."

2. Get Medical Clearance

If you’ve had recent surgery or a heart event (such as a heart attack or stent placement), you may need medical clearance before flying. This often involves a physical exam, stress tests, or blood work to ensure that your heart is functioning well enough for air travel.

3. Stay Hydrated

Avoid alcohol or caffeinated drinks which can lead to dehydration or cause palpitations. “For patients with heart conditions, I recommend traveling with a portable blood pressure monitor to check BP values if they become lightheaded or feel uncomfortable,” said Dr. Darabant. “Always communicate with flight crew any concerns.”  

4. Monitor Your Medication

Ensure that you have enough of your heart medications for the entire trip, and keep them in your carry-on bag in case your checked luggage gets delayed. You should also bring along a copy of your prescriptions. It’s a good idea to carry a letter from your doctor detailing your medical condition, particularly if you’re taking blood thinners or other medications that might raise concern during security checks.

5. Take Breaks and Move Around

For long flights, make a point to get up and move around every hour or two. Walking up and down the aisle for a few minutes can help promote circulation and reduce the risk of developing blood clots. If you're unable to move freely, flexing your legs and ankles while seated can also help.

6. Consider a Window Seat

Choosing a window seat can help you control your environment more effectively. For example, you can adjust the shade to control how much light you’re exposed to, which can be important if you have issues with lightheadedness or dizziness.

7. Know the Signs of a Heart Problem

Be aware of the signs of a potential heart problem during the flight, including chest pain, dizziness, nausea, shortness of breath, or fainting. If any of these symptoms occur, it’s important to seek immediate medical attention. "If you experience any unusual symptoms, it’s better to err on the side of caution and get help from the flight crew or emergency medical personnel," Dr. Eidelman said.

8. Wear Compression Stockings

For individuals at higher risk of blood clots, compression stockings can be a helpful preventative measure. These stockings help improve circulation in your legs, reducing the likelihood of clot formation during long periods of immobility.

While flying with heart disease does come with some risks, they can often be managed with careful planning and precautions. Consulting with your doctor, staying hydrated, taking breaks during long flights, and knowing the signs of heart complications are all key strategies to ensure your flight is as safe as possible.

As Dr. Darabant emphasizes: "Flying can be safe for people with heart disease, but it requires extra attention to your health and well-being before and during the flight. Always plan ahead and follow your doctor's advice."