If you love to travel, then summer is your season. No matter where you drive or fly to this summer, it’s important to keep your health and safety in mind. That’s particularly vital when it comes to your heart.
Pack enough medicines. Do you take any heart medicines? If you fly, keep your medicines in your carry-on, not in your checked baggage. Also, bring copies of your prescriptions, along with your doctor’s phone number. Those might come in handy if you lose your medicines or need to get in touch with your doctor or pharmacy.
Move around on long flights or drives. Some travelers may develop blood clots in the legs, called deep-vein thrombosis (DVT), when they sit for long periods. Try to take a break so you can stretch and walk around. If you’re at risk for DVT, ask your doctor how to protect yourself.
Take a walking tour. Walking is good for the heart. Lace up your shoes and get your heart pumping a little while you see the sights.* You might check out local trails, museums and shops.
Pack healthy snacks. You might consider options such as unsalted nuts or peanut butter and whole-grain crackers. How about pre-cut veggies, such as carrot or celery sticks?
Keep your hands clean. To help guard against infections, wash your hands often, including before you eat and after you return to your hotel.
Drink up. Water is a great choice because it contains no calories. Check with your doctor before increasing your fluid intake, if you’ve been told to limit fluids.
Sources: American Geriatrics Society; American Heart Association; Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
*Talk with your doctor before increasing your activity level.