Getting on With Life After Atrial Fibrillation
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is not a debilitating disease. In fact, if managed correctly with medication and lifestyle adjustments, you can live a normal life.
Travelling
When travelling, it is important to be fully prepared. Here are a few things to consider when planning a trip away:2
- Arrange an appointment with your doctor beforehand to discuss any precautions you may need to take
- Talk to your doctor about immunisations
- Find out how to get a medical ID bracelet/necklace when abroad; time zone differences (you need to know how this may affect your medication routine)
- Wear loose clothing and use flight socks throughout the flight
- Try to stretch your legs as often as possible (especially on long-haul flights) to reduce the risks of blood clots
Things to keep in mind when travelling as an atrial fibrillation patient
References
- American Heart Association. FAQs of atrial fibrillation. [Internet] [cited on 2020 Oct 23] Available from:
https://myafibexperience.org/media/38924/85f46b6f9a829463fe6940e2c1e7fe96-faqs-about-afib.pdf American Heart Association. FAQs of atrial fibrillation. [Internet] [cited on 2020 Oct 23] Available from:
https://myafibexperience.org/media/38924/85f46b6f9a829463fe6940e2c1e7fe96-faqs-about-afib.pdf Return to content - AF Association. Travel [Internet]. [cited 2020 Oct 23]. Available from: http://www.heartrhythmalliance.org/afa/uk/travel AF Association. Travel [Internet]. [cited 2020 Oct 23]. Available from: http://www.heartrhythmalliance.org/afa/uk/travel Return to content