The recent reports of pilot suffering cardiac arrests mid-air point to their stressful long schedules. While pilots face unique challenges, frequent flyers are not exempt from heart health concerns. Hydration, movement during flights, and seeking medical advice for pre-existing conditions are essential for frequent flyers, says Dr Gyanti R B Singh, Senior Consultant, Interventional Cardiologist, Metro Hospitals and Heart Institute, Noida
In the high-stress world of aviation, pilots are not only responsible for the safety of countless passengers but also face potential risks to their own health. Recent incidents of pilots experiencing heart attacks and sudden cardiac arrests on duty have raised concerns about the impact of long work hours and high-altitude situations on heart health. It is true that decreased air pressure, dehydration, prolonged immobility, physical and emotional stress compound the load of triggers but pre-flight preparation, checks and some practices are all that are needed for a safe flight. After all, flying does increase heart rate.
Long hours of work, combined with the demanding nature of piloting, can place an immense burden on the cardiovascular system. Prolonged periods of stress, irregular sleep patterns, and exposure to high altitude all contribute to the equation, heightening the risk of heart-related complications. So many would ask why pilots, who undergo physical checks quite regularly, could experience heart attacks mid-air. That’s because they usually face high levels of stress due to the responsibility of navigating and ensuring passenger safety. Chronic stress can lead to an increase in blood pressure and heart rate, putting additional strain on the heart. Now when this chronic stress is combined by irregular work schedules and erratic patchy sleep, it multiplies the effect of stress on the heart muscle and hypertension. And at an altitude, this can trigger a cascade of events that increase the risk of irregular heart rhythms, other cardiovascular issues like deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary thromboembolism (PTE). High stress and altitude-related factors can lead to arrhythmias, disrupting the heart’s normal rhythm.
So many of my patients ask me if prolonged stress and altitude exposure on long haul flights can trigger heart attacks or sudden cardiac arrests, particularly in individuals with pre-existing heart conditions? Some patients with a baseline oxygen saturation of 90 per cent or those with moderate heart failure (HF) may require an on-board medical oxygen supply. Those with severe or decompensated congestive heart failure should avoid flying commercially.
You have exhausted your
monthly limit of free stories.
To continue reading,
simply register or sign in
🌟 Unlock More with an Express Digital Subscription! 🌟 Dive deeper into the stories that matter. Now available at an exclusive, limited-time price.
This premium article is free for now.
Register to read more free stories and access offers from partners.
🌟 Unlock More with an Express Digital Subscription! 🌟 Dive deeper into the stories that matter. Now available at an exclusive, limited-time price.
This content is exclusive for our subscribers.
Subscribe now to get unlimited access to The Indian Express exclusive and premium stories.
So what are preventive measures?
Regular Health Checks: Regular medical assessment can help identify cardiovascular risk factors early.
Lifestyle Management: Maintaining a healthy lifestyle with regular exercise, balanced diet and stress-reduction techniques is crucial.
Sleep Hygiene: Adequate and regular sleep patterns are vital to heart health.
Most Read
Work Hour Limits: Implementing reasonable work hour limits and ensuring adequate rest intervals can mitigate the risk.
What should frequent fliers do? While pilots face unique challenges, frequent flyers are not exempt from heart health concerns. Long hours of travel, exposure to time zone changes, and the stresses of air travel can impact cardiovascular well-being. Hydration, movement during flights, and seeking medical advice for pre-existing conditions are essential for frequent flyers.
For individuals with pre-existing heart conditions, who engage in long-haul flights, there are several precautions that can help ensure their safety and well-being during the journey. First and foremost, consult a healthcare professional before embarking on a long flight. Medical advice can provide personalised recommendations based on the individual’s specific condition and needs. Maintaining proper medication schedules is crucial, and travellers should carry an adequate supply of medications in their carry-on luggage in case of delays or lost baggage. Staying hydrated by drinking water throughout the flight can help prevent dehydration, which can strain the cardiovascular system. Frequent movement and exercises in the cabin, like ankle circles and calf stretches, aid in preventing blood clots and reducing the risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Wearing compression stockings may also assist in improving blood circulation. Choosing an aisle seat allows for easier movement and access to the restroom. Additionally, avoiding excessive consumption of caffeine, alcohol, and heavy meals during the flight can contribute to overall comfort and cardiovascular well-being.
First published on: 21-08-2023 at 18:34 IST
