af

[degsy76]

hi wonder if anyone can help me i had a af attack in may was admitted to hospital was put on bisoprolol and rivoroxaban will flying affect my af read on here last week about the high altitude could affect it im flying out to south africa on 27th dec

[jennydog]

I went to USA 8 months after my ablation. Manchester to Boston with change in Holland. The flying, about 7 hrs, was no problem. The waiting about and the security checks were tiring and stressful. I never want to go to Scipol, Amsterdam ever again.

I did have an episode on day 4 but this may have been because I missed lunch.

Returning home was no problem.

If you pace yourself and keep hydrated then you should have no difficulty.

[BobD Volunteer]

The aircraft is pressurise to no higher than 9000ft so altitude really doesn't come into things. The most important things are not to get too stressed (leave plenty of time to get to the airport etc) and make sure that you drink plenty of water. Not alcohol or caffeine With the time difference you will need to make adjustments to when you take your drugs, especially the anticoagulant to ensure that you remain protected.

Enjoy your holiday

Bob

[Pdotg]

I take both those medications and have flown long-haul many times without any problem. (And I do drink wine and coffee en route!)

[Bob56]

I'm with Bob on this one. I have flown many times with AF and on similar medication. I think the risks are more associated with the change in routines eg taking medication at different times, drinking too much ( apart from water that is) or more then usual and same with food. I had an AF attack on a long haul flight and I am sure it was more to do with free drinks at the airport and some exotic and unfamiliar food en route!! Boring as it is if you follow the same routines that you do at home you should be ok. Have a great time!!

[gemini52]

I travel every year on a long haul flight. A few days after my arrival I often get a very short episode which corrects itself but strangely enough I never get it after the flight home. Strange I know. This year whilst in AF I had reason to have a right good belly laugh and I went back into normal rhythm. A case of laughter is the best medicine. Please don't worry and enjoy your time away. Regards Pat.

[degsy76]

thank you all so much i feel alot better hearing those reports i was panicking very kind xxx

[01maxdog]

I take the same meds as you plus a few more , and I work for an airline so fly a lot . I flew to Boston 3 weeks after my ablation and I'm fine . I'll be flying back from LA next week and I have no worries what so ever . I take my drugs at the same time as I take them in the UK otherwise I'd be up in the middle of the night ! It works for me as some I take with food . It's the stress and worry that needs to be avoided , so prepare, leave plenty of time for any pitfalls , carry water and a snack . I practise deep breathing and get up every so often for a walk around the plane . I also carry a fan so I don't overheat and face/ hand wipes . Little things can make you feel just a bit better .

Lisa

[degsy76 in reply to 01maxdog]

thank you very much for the advice i feel alot better now going on holiday xx