Travelling with a Pacemaker or Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator (ICD) can be an overwhelming experience. especially the first time. However, being prepared and taking the right steps will not only make your trip more enjoyable. It will put you and everyone else concerned at ease.
You can never be too careful in those moments when every second counts. When accessing your records or contacting relevant people is vital.
My story of flying with a pacemaker and ICD
5 weeks after my first pacemaker and defibrillator (ICD) insertion, I flew to Australia. So I was able to recover and spend time with my family. Apart from having a new foreign object inside my body, I also had a clot near my heart.
I had a cardiac arrest while out exercising and was rushed to ICU. They had discovered I have a heart condition called ‘Cardiac Sarcoidosis’. Then I was told I needed urgent surgery to have a Pacemaker and defibrillator. All of a sudden, everything seemed very complicated to me when it came to travelling again. Which was a little ironic because I am a travel blogger and write about travel for a living.
I just didn’t know where to start looking for the right answers. Like, can a person with a pacemaker go through airport security or how soon can l fly after pacemaker insertion.
Steps to flying with a pacemaker and defibrillator (ICD)
Knowing things like who to contact in an emergency, having the correct papers, and knowing your limits. As well as carrying the correct equipment will become a part of your everyday travelling agenda.
Here are some of the steps, I took before travelling with my pacemaker and defibrillator (ICD). I hope that they help you and are useful for your travels.
1. How soon can I fly after having my pacemaker or Defibrillator ICD inserted?
They say it is best to wait an appropriate time before you start travelling or flying after implantation of your Pacemaker or Defibrillator (ICD). However, they usually say between 6 months to 1 year but it really depends on the individual and their case.
Best to consult with your doctor and have clearance before booking any type of travel or flight.
As stated earlier, I flew 5 weeks after my first pacemaker and Defibrillator (ICD) implant. I had healed quickly and my body was accepting the implant well. This made a huge difference in my case when travelling. One of the terms, before I flew to Taiwan for a month working, was to have a check-up with a local hospital. Which was an interesting experience.
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Read More1.1 Questions to ask your doctor before flying with your Pacemaker or Defibrillator
- Verify with your doctor that the underlying heart condition does not pose a risk for flying.
- Check if there is any equipment you need to take on the Plane, like the magnet to stop the ICD.
- Ask about your ID Card which you may need to show at the airport.
- See if you need to wear Compression stockings used after surgery to prevent blood clots
- Ask your doctor if your pacemaker contains any metal. Some versions do not contain metal, and they will not cause any trouble.
- Ask the doctor if there are any activities that you should avoid on your trip.
2. Pacemaker or Defibrillator (ICD) identification card
Make sure you have your Pacemaker or Defibrillator (ICD) identification card with you before you travel. If you don’t know where it is or don’t have one, ask your pacemaker clinic for a copy. As my understanding is there should be one in your file.
2.1 What is a Pacemaker or Defibrillator (ICD) identification card?
A Pacemaker or Defibrillator (ICD) identification card is an ID card that states all relevant information regarding your insertion. It lists information from the type of leads you have, the date of implantation, hospital where it was implanted to the doctor who operated.
It should even have some of your personal details like your DOB and contact number for your hospital. The ID card can also be known as the Medical Device ID Card, depending on the country you are from.
Your ID card will let the relevant people know that you have a Pacemaker or Defibrillator (ICD) implate. It will let security officials know at the airports, as well as help others know your situation in an emergency.
3. Obtain a Medical Alert Necklace or Wrist band while travelling
In an emergency, the simple addition of a Medical Alert necklace or bracelet can save your life. Especially if you have an ICD and an external defibrillator can not be used on you. Medical Alert ID bands give medical professionals crucial knowledge of your Pacemaker or Defibrillator (ICD) insertion. As well as what the problem may be and how to treat you.
Medical Alert Necklace or Wrist band is not a compulsory item but are definitely a great addition. Most feature the international medical symbol caduceus, the image of a staff with two snakes. As well open or turn to reveal securely concealed medical identification.
Here is the medical alert ID wrist band that I have been wearing for a few years now. It states my Cardiac Sarcoidosis condition, Pacemaker and ICD on the front. Then on the back, I have my husband’s international number to contact in an emergency.
You can check out the range of Medical Alert ID bracelets here, that vary in styles and sizes. You choose the one you want, size and what you want engraved onto it.
3.1 Top tip
- Let people know about your Medical Alert Necklace or Wrist band and what to point out in an emergency.
4. Travel Insurance for your Pacemaker or Defibrillator (ICD)
Obtaining travel insurance for your pacemaker or defibrillator (ICD) is definitely a great idea. Especially if you are travelling to a foreign country that you have not been to before. It will not only give you peace of mind but also the people who you are travelling with too.
Currently, l obtain travel insurance for my pacemaker and ICD as and when I need it. Each trip for me is a case by case situation like hiking in Austria to skiing in France. I have found that insurance seems to be more expensive if you have had an operation within 12 months. I have had 4 operations within the last two years but again this is my situation and circumstance. Everyone is different.
4.1 If you already have travel Insurance
When you have your pacemaker /ICD implanted you will need to inform your insurer of your change of circumstances. As far as I am aware if you don’t notify them of this change you are not legally covered. At the same time check to see if travel insurance covers travelling with a pacemaker or ICD.
My policy was not vailed anymore, after my pacemaker and ICD implant. The insurer cancelled the existing policy and paid out the duration, which was fine.
4.2 If you do not have already have travel insurance
Are you unsure where to look for insurance companies specialising in travelling with a pacemaker and ICD? Firstly, check with your pacemaker clinic, the heart foundation website, or the brochures given to you by your doctor. This may take a bit of research to find the right travel insurance company, so don’t worry.
Secondly, ask your previous insurer or try a search engine company for results. I use a free search engine called AllClear Travel Compare and add in my medical information. Then it shows me my options for different insurers, a quote, and what it covers.
4.3 Tips for pacemaker or defibrillator (ICD) insurance coverage
- Ask if the country you want to travel is covered under your travel insurance.
- Print a copy of your Travel Insurance and keep it on yourself.
5. How to book a flight with a pacemaker or defibrillator (ICD)
Since writing this original post, I have taken multi flights around the world before covid. Registering when you fly is just an option and at your own discretion.
For me, if I am taking a long haul flight on my own like when I flew to Japan, Taiwan or Sierra Leone. Then I let the flight attendants know my condition when I get on the plane. Short distance flights, like when I went to Austria and Italy, I let my travelling companion know.
This is a good idea also when you are travelling a long distance by train or boat, as well.
5.1 Register as a disabled person when you fly (Optional)
Registering as a disabled person when booking your flight is an option, not something you have to do. Though it is a good idea because you are informing and making the airline company aware of your situation. If something happens mid-air, It will assist the airline on what the problem may be and how to treat you.
I didn’t register before I flew to Australia because I needed to email the airline in advance. As I needed to have clearance to carry all my medication for my condition. So they were already aware that I had a pacemaker and a defibrillator (ICD) inserted.
5.2 If you don’t register as a disabled person when you fly
If you decide not to register as a disabled person or there is no option on the booking site. Then you can let the airline know when checking in your bags. Or when you are getting onto the plane.
5.3 Tip
- You can always email the airline with your details before you fly or speak to them
6. What to do at the Airport with your Pacemaker or Defibrillator (ICD)
Going to the airport and checking in becomes a whole new experience when you have a pacemaker/defibrillator (ICD). One thing, I have learnt is that it doesn’t have to be harder than you make it. I have gotten used to people looking at me and wondering why I am getting different treatment.
Even though different countries use different methods at security airports. One thing is the same and that is letting security know that you have a pacemaker/defibrillator (ICD). Before you even go through the airport security scanners. You can set off the alarms or the scanner can interfere with your device.
6.1 Checking onto your flight with your Pacemaker or Defibrillator (ICD)
When you are checking onto your flight make the staff aware of your pacemaker or a defibrillator (ICD). This is so they can make a note of your details. Though this is not a compulsory step it makes the airline aware of your situation in case of an emergency.
6.2 Let the airport security know you have a pacemaker or defibrillator (ICD)
When going through airport security, let the staff know you have a pacemaker or defibrillator (ICD). You will be required to show proof but that will depend on the airport security you are going through. Then you will either go through a different area or skip the scanner.
Sometimes, security will also either do a hand down search or check over you with a hand-held metal detector. Don’t worry though as they will guide you through the process.
I find the easiest and most efficient way to go through airport security is having your Pacemaker/Defibrillator ID card. Then when you tell the security, you show them straight away. This saves a lot of hassles and questions, as Pacemakers and Defibrillators ID’s should be uniform.
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Read More6.3 Can you go through scanners with a pacemaker or defibrillator (ICD)
There are reasons behind not going through a security scanner at the airport with your pacemaker or defibrillator. It can interfere with the scanner’s electric waves. You can set the security alarms off (rare but can happen). It is important to follow the protocol according to unseen disabilities.
Most scanners are safe that I am aware of but don’t take my word for it. Do your own research or ask questions if you are concerned or not sure. Always best to be safe and do the right thing.
7. Top Tips for Travelling with Pacemaker and Defibrillator (ICD)
- If you are wanting to drive while away travelling, check with your doctor if it is possible. It’s recommended you wait for at least a month.
- Let your doctor know in advance if you already had travel plans booked before your surgery. As you may have to cancel your trip.
- Obtain a list of places where your pacemaker can be repaired while you are travelling. The maker of your device should have information on their website of the addresses of local hospitals. Or doctors’ offices that can help you repair the pacemaker if needed.
Thank you for reading this article ‘Travelling with a Pacemaker or Defibrillator (ICD)’. I hope it helped answer any questions you may have about travelling with your implate. I spent a week at Park Igls Medical Spa Retreat recently after my ICD stocked me back into place. I highly recommend it. I came away feeling healthy and energised.
Do you have a Pacemaker or Defibrillator (ICD) and travel? Is there something that I should add to the above list? Please feel free to share your experience in the comments below. Or let me know what I can add to the list to help others with pacemakers or ICDs.
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⇒ Looking for inspiration on what you can do with your pacemaker and defibrillator. Please feel free to head over to my healthy heart page
Disclaimer: All views are based on my own experience and research with my own Pacemaker and Defibrillator (ICD) while travelling.
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Thanks so much for this information!
You are more than welcome, I hope that it helps you 🙂
It’s an informative and insightful piece. Those of us not suffering from medical conditions really give so little thought to the challenges faced by some people simply to get out and onto the road. I was chatting to a woman with a heart condition recently and was shocked by the insurance premium she’d been quoted.
Thank you very much, Stuart I appreciate your comment. Things have definitely really changed for me and now I just want to help others with same situation. Insurance is a nightmare in itself these dates.
Great article, Mel! I’m really pleased this hasn’t stopped you from travelling and doing some of the things you love.
Did you arrange special assistance at the airport? I find with my own health issues, that makes a huge difference. It’s less overwhelming (and exhausting) navigating an airport and on the occasions that I’ve been escorted, it’s generally easier going through security – staff have more patience and are more supportive.
Thank you so much for your feedback. No, I didn’t get special assistance but I was ok with it all and I had my husband with me. I didn’t realise that you had health issues and I am sorry to hear that. I do hope that everything is ok. I really wrote the article to help others.
A friend of mine passed this onto me as l have a pacemaker and l am about to fly. I just want to say thank you so much for such informative information as l struggled to find anything. What a head piece l will definitely be let other know about your post.
Thank you very much for your message Berverly, I appreciate it and I am glad that my post was able to help you. I also hope that you have a safe flight to wherever you are going.
Good informative post. I have had a pacemaker for years. Which hasn’t slowed me down. Glad to hear your still travelling & not allowing your situation to stop you. There should be more people like you out there.
Thank you Don and glad to hear that your pacemaker has not slowed you down either. Once I had got one, I realised more and more people had them or knew someone else that had one. If anything it has pushed me more to do the things that I love. Mel
This post is going to very helpful for a lot of people. The things most of us take for granted when traveling and doing things like passing through scanners!
I would love to get a bracelet