Heart Palpitations Travel Insurance (Arrhythmia)
An irregular heartbeat can be caused by many different factors including a low blood sugar level, anaemia, excessive drinking, a heart problem and dehydration. Although symptoms such as a fluttering or pounding heartbeat can be distressing, in the majority of cases it doesn’t mean you have a heart problem, according to the National Health Service.
Nevertheless, if you have an irregular heartbeat and are planning a holiday to a dream destination it’s highly recommended that you purchase holiday insurance. Staysure can often cover you with a tailored insurance policy to put your mind at rest. Apply online in a matter of minutes with our screening process, or call our team of travel insurance specialists on 0800 033 4902.
Why do I need travel insurance for an irregular heartbeat?
The simple answer is that it doesn’t hurt to be prepared, especially if your irregular heartbeat is causing you concern. Although thinking about hospital visits when planning a holiday is the last thing you want to do, a Staysure Comprehensive policy will put your mind at ease and provides cover for medical treatment as well as repatriation, theft, loss cancellation and much more.
An unexpected hospital visit due to an irregular heartbeat could mean additional accommodation costs, cancelled excursions or missed flights. It could even lead to your holiday being cancelled before you’ve even left the UK. By declaring your irregular heartbeat when you purchase a policy with us, you’ll be covered if something goes wrong. You’ll also have access to a 24-hour emergency helpline in English, should you need it abroad.
Tips for travelling with an irregular heartbeat
- If you are worried about travelling with an irregular heartbeat, speak to your doctor before booking your holiday. They can declare if you are fit to travel or not
- If travelling in Europe, make sure you have a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). This entitles you to reduced-cost and sometimes free medical treatment. However, it doesn’t cover your flight home if you miss it due to illness
- Carefully consider where go on holiday. Book accommodation that’s easily accessible and close to amenities
- Avoid countries with extreme temperatures as they can put an added strain on your heart
- Keep an up-to-date list of your medication and doses in your wallet or purse in case of loss
- Take enough medication for a few extra days too, just in case you are delayed or have an unexpected stop in hospital
- Avoid high altitude destinations as low oxygen levels could make an irregular heartbeat worse
- If you’re travelling alone, contact the airline for help with your luggage, moving around the airport or anything else which might cause unnecessary strain to your heart.
Common questions about travel insurance for an irregular heartbeat
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I was fitted with a pacemaker last year and would like to travel. My doctor has given me the all clear, will you insure me?
- Yes, if your doctor has declared you fit to travel then we would certainly consider covering you. You need to complete our simple medical screening process either online or by calling our friendly travel insurance team. Providing you’ve answered all our questions and we are aware of any pre-existing medical conditions, we could provide you with cover. However, there may be an additional premium to pay.
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Can you fly with a pacemaker?
- Yes, there are no special risks associated with flying with a pacemaker. Anyone with a pacemaker is advised to request a hand search when going through airport security if possible as metal detectors can affect the device. It is always recommended that a person with any medical conditions consults their doctor before travel.
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Sometimes I have blackouts as a result of my abnormal heart rhythm. Could I still be insured for a holiday?
- Your doctor needs to state you are well enough for the holiday and confirm that the blackouts are purely as a result of you your irregular heart rhythm. Once you have the green light, you can contact us for a personal quote.
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Can you fly with atrial fibrillation?
- Yes, in general there is no reason why you cannot fly if you have atrial fibrillation but, as with all pre-existing medical conditions, it is best to check with your doctor or GP first. If you have a pacemaker, make sure to avoid metal detectors at security checkpoints.
Take frequent breaks to stretch and move around. This will reduce the risk of a blood clot after long periods of sitting, it’s also worth considering support stockings to help improve blood flow and prevent swelling and blood clots in your legs.
Drinking plenty of water is also important as dehydration is a common trigger for Afib.
- Yes, in general there is no reason why you cannot fly if you have atrial fibrillation but, as with all pre-existing medical conditions, it is best to check with your doctor or GP first. If you have a pacemaker, make sure to avoid metal detectors at security checkpoints.
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My doctor said I’m not fit to travel at the moment due to my heart problems. Is there any way of getting insured?
- Unfortunately, no. If your doctor has said you’re not fit enough to travel, then we are unable to cover you.
Heart Palpitations Travel Insurance
Get a travel insurance for irregular heartbeats quote online or call Staysure on 0800 033 4902.
