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Flying
You are allowed to fly 7 to 10 days after a heart attack as long as there are no complications and your doctor says you are fit to fly.
If there were complications after your heart attack (such as angina and arrhythmias) then you will have to wait 4 to 6 weeks before you fly. Again your doctor must give you permission to fly.
If you have any concerns about your health then you need to contact the airline's medical department before travelling. This will allow medical clearance and fitness to fly to be assessed before you travel and allow the airline staff to help you with early boarding and inflight care if required.
Make sure you are not carrying heavy luggage and that you have any drugs you need in your hand luggage.
To protect yourself when flying always:
- Drink plenty of non–alcoholic fluids
- Avoid alcohol
- Get up regularly for short walks
- Make sure you have plenty of legroom when you book, this may mean checking in early
- Every half hour: bend and stretch your legs, wiggle your feet and press the balls of your feet down hard against the floor
Travel insurance
You have to declare if you have had a heart attack or have coronary heart disease when buying travel insurance to ensure that you have the appropriate cover when abroad.
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