Heart Healthy Holiday Travel Tips
Expert Tips from Aspirus Heart Care Nurse Practitioner, Megan Johnson
11/19/2025
Megan Johnson, APNP, Aspirus Cardiology
As the holiday
season approaches, many people prepare for travel to visit loved ones or enjoy
seasonal festivities. However, for those with cardiovascular conditions,
holiday travel poses unique risks that can lead to serious health
issues.
Holidays can
potentially have a negative impact on your cardiac conditions due to travelling
to higher altitudes, added stress due to planning and executing travel,
indulging in richer holiday foods, increased alcohol consumption, and disrupted
medication routines. These are all factors that can increase the likelihood of
cardiac events. Research shows that heart-related emergencies, including atrial
fibrillation, rise during the holiday season, making it especially important
for people with heart disease to remain vigilant.
“Holiday travel can
be challenging for patients with heart conditions, but with careful preparation
and awareness, you can enjoy the season safely and healthily,” said Megan Johnson,
APNP, Aspirus Cardiology. “The two biggest risks we see are increased
alcohol intake, which can trigger ‘holiday heart syndrome’ characterized by
abnormal heart rhythms and missed doses of critical medications, which can lead
to elevated blood pressure, strokes, or other complications.”
Johnson advises
travelers with heart disease to always bring an ample supply of their
medications, carry a current medication list, and familiarize themselves with
local emergency facilities at their destinations. Maintaining routines as much
as possible, including taking medications on schedule, staying hydrated,
getting adequate rest, and engaging in light exercise, can also help mitigate
risks. Managing stress is equally vital, as the hustle and bustle of the
holidays can quickly become overwhelming.
Long journeys by car
or plane present additional concerns. Sitting for extended periods can increase
the risk of blood clots, especially in older adults or those with existing
cardiovascular conditions. Johnson recommends taking breaks to walk and stretch
regularly during travel and consulting a healthcare provider about the possible
benefits of compression socks to improve circulation.
Johnson also
encourages mindful eating during holiday gatherings. “Enjoy the festivities and
the special foods but try to eat a healthy snack beforehand and choose options
that include fruits, vegetables, and proteins. Moderation is the key to
enjoying holiday meals without overtaxing your heart,” she said.
Travelers should
remain alert to any warning signs such as chest pain, shortness of breath,
palpitations, dizziness, or unusual discomfort in the jaw or arms. Promptly
seeking medical attention if symptoms occur can be lifesaving.
Aspirus remains
committed to support heart patients with education and resources to help them
stay safe year-round, especially during holiday travel.
For more information
on heart health tips during the holidays or to schedule an appointment with an
Aspirus Heart Care cardiologist or provider, please contact 715.847.2611 or
visit aspirus.org.
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