Air travel after ablation?

[kkatz]

We spend a lot of time away in the winter & my hubby so looks forward to it.I have an ablation scheduled and wondered how advisable it is to fly asap after published 4 weeks.And although I am very much a person who needs to organize my life I know AF doesn't allow this and will see how things are and book last minute.

I am quite expecting it may not work or not even happen as told only 50% chance .

Just looking for people's thoughts & maybe experience.

[Paulbounce]

Hi KKtaz.

After ablation, it is common for patients to be advised to take a few weeks to rest and recover before air travel. The timeline for recovery can vary based on the individual and the specifics of the procedure, but generally, it's recommended to wait AT LEAST 4 weeks before flying.

However, it's important to keep in mind that we are all different and every person's recovery time is also different. Before making any travel plans, I think it's best to check with your doctor to discuss this matter. Personally, I would wait at least a few months before flying after an ablation - that's just me though and you may be fine. You'll likely pay more for a last-minute booking but your health comes first. I wish you a successful recovery. Soak up some sun for me if you do get away.

Paul

[mjames1]

I was told to wait a couple of weeks, but best to check with your ep, as they know what is involved in your specific procedure, as well as your medical history. But if you do plan on flying close to the permission date they give you, think about traveler's insurance in case you have complications that would delay flying safely.

Jim

[CDreamer]

I flew 5 days after ablation, my EP said he would prefer I waited 2 weeks but that some of his patients flew day or two following with no complications.

I think it’s so individual and you really won’t know till it’s done how you will be so I’d agree with getting good insurance if you book anything prior to having ablation - ifvyou are waiting for a procedure you may find it difficult to be honest. I flew because I was living in Spain at the time so had to return home.

[kkatz in reply to CDreamer]

Thanks CDreamer.Impossible to get insurance for existing illnesses for 15 months as waiting for Cv then awaiting ablation.Main worry for me is if something happens on the plane.I sometimes wonder if having a holiday home is worth it anymore . Usually too hot for me from May onwards so can only do 90 days between end of Oct & Apr.

Keep hoping I can get AF sorted & spend more time there.

Keep saying this time next year I will be better.

[CDreamer in reply to kkatz]

It’s not impossible but it is difficult and may be expensive so depends upon how deep your pocket is and how much you want to go. What I did when just going to our Spanish holiday home was to take out annual medical insurance locally, didn’t bother about the cost of the flight, that worked.

I’ve been in AF on planes several time and it’s really no big deal - as long as you have plan, don’t stress and stay really well hydrated and don’t tell any of the crew! Stressing about it is the worst and most likely to bring on an episode. I worried more about getting through the airport and the long queues as I can’t stand.

[kkatz in reply to CDreamer]

I guess it can wait & something tells me the need to have this conversation is to stop me worrying about the ablation.Think a point in time after the ablation.Scheduled for 22nd.Hope saying the date doesn't jinx it.

[Roto]

Travel insurance maybe be an issue depending on your age and any pre-existing conditions and where you're travelling to usually ok with in the EU area.. long haul is another matter, best get travel advice from your consultant also how quickly you start recovery it will vary from person to person, I had a wound in my groin for a number of weeks after so was grounded for around a month

[JeanetteH]

I was advised after my recent ablation not to go away for 1 to 2 months in case of complications.