As February approaches, hearts take centre stage – not just because of Valentine’s Day, but because it is also Heart Health Month. While we often associate Valentine’s Day with love and affection, it is also the perfect time to reflect on our heart health.
If you have been diagnosed with a heart condition in the past or are currently managing one, this blog will guide you through steps to maintain a healthy heart. We will also give you tips and advice on planning and travelling after diagnosis of a heart condition. And we will also help you choose the best travel insurance policy for your specific needs,
Keeping Your Heart Healthy
Looking after your heart is important for everyone, especially for people who have a heart condition. Here are some simple yet effective tips to keep your heart as healthy as possible:
1. Stay Active
Regular exercise is not only good for your body but also strengthens your heart. Being active improves your blood circulation, lowers your blood pressure, and helps you maintain a healthy weight. All of this is important for keeping your heart healthy.
Try to do at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week. This could include activities like walking, swimming, or gentle yoga. If you are just starting out, take it slow and gradually increase your activity level.
2. Eat a Heart-Healthy Diet
What you eat plays a big role in keeping your heart healthy. A good diet for your heart includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. These foods help control cholesterol and blood pressure.
Try to avoid processed foods, sugary snacks, and foods high in saturated fats, as these can increase the risk of heart disease. Small changes, such as choosing wholemeal bread instead of white bread or eating nuts and seeds instead of crisps, can make a big difference.
3. Manage Stress
Stress can affect your heart by raising your blood pressure and increasing the risk of heart problems. Finding ways to relax and reduce stress is important.
You can try mindfulness exercises, deep breathing, or meditation to help calm your mind. Spending time doing things you enjoy, being in nature, or talking with friends and family can also help you feel less stressed.
4. Monitor Your Health Numbers
Knowledge is power, especially when it comes to heart health. It is important to know your blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and weight. Keeping track of these numbers helps you stay in control of your health and will alert you to any problems early on.
Regular check-ups with your doctor are important for keeping your heart in good shape. If you are planning to travel, you can take a portable blood pressure monitor with you and keep in touch with your doctor if needed.
5. Support for Smoking
Smoking is one of the biggest causes of heart disease. Quitting smoking can make a huge difference to your heart health.
If you smoke, talk to your doctor or a support group about ways to stop. There are many tools, such as nicotine patches or counselling, that can help. Even reducing the number of cigarettes, you smoke each day is a good step in the right direction.
By following these tips, you are giving your heart the care it deserves. Taking care of your heart now means you can enjoy many adventures in the future.
Travelling with Heart Conditions
Planning a trip after a heart attack or a heart condition diagnosis can seem overwhelming, but with the right preparation, it’s definitely possible. One of the most important things to arrange before you travel is the right travel insurance policy for your needs.
Medical treatment in other countries can be very expensive. But provided you have fully declared your condition to your travel insurance provider, travel insurance that covers pre-existing medical conditions, including heart problems, can protect you from these unexpected costs.
Here’s what to keep in mind when looking for travel insurance:
1. Be Honest About Your Heart Condition
When applying for travel insurance, make sure you tell the truth about your medical history. If you have had a heart attack in the past or are currently being treated for a heart condition, do not leave this out. Being honest ensures your policy will cover you if something happens.
2. Choose the Right Cover for Your Needs
Look for a policy that covers all medical emergencies related to your heart condition. This should include hospital stays, medication, and medical evacuation if needed.
3. Check What’s Not Covered
Some policies do not cover pre-existing medical conditions. Before you buy your travel insurance, make sure your heart condition is included in the cover. Also, check if there are any limits on activities or destinations based on your health.
4. Pack Your Medications and Records
Always travel with enough medication to last your entire trip, plus a few extra days in case your travel plans change, or you are delayed Keep a copy of your medical records and doctor’s contact details with you so you can access them if needed.
5. See Your Doctor Before Travelling
Before going on a trip, see your doctor or cardiologist to make sure you are fit to travel. They can give you advice on staying healthy during your trip. For example, they might suggest wearing compression socks on a flight or moving around regularly to prevent blood clots.
By following these tips, you can help make sure your travel experience is as safe and smooth as possible. Prioritise your heart health every day and plan your travels with care. The right travel insurance will give you peace of mind, allowing you to focus on making new memories and enjoying your journey.
