For many, the “golden years” represent a great time to slow down, enjoy retirement, and in many cases, take the time to travel. Traveling can be exciting and fun, and scientists have often touted the many benefits of exploring the world around us, with various studies demonstrating a link between travel and greater happiness, creativity and empathy. But, there are plenty of other benefits to traveling — including positive gains for your mental and physical health.

WakeMed Heart & Vascular cardiologist Dr. Sheel Tolia explains, “For many, travel is a great way to stay connected to family and friends, and for others, it’s a way to reduce stress — both of which are good for physical and mental health.”

And, increasingly, science is telling us that what’s good for mental health is also good for our physical health — and more specifically, even our cardiovascular health. In fact, according to a Scientific Statement issued by the American Heart Association in 2021, as well as related research published in the journal Circulation, “…psychological health can positively or negatively impact a person’s health and risk factors for heart disease and stroke.”

Yet, for some patients with heart disease, travel may feel overwhelming. Dr. Tolia explains that for individuals with heart disease, there are many benefits to getting out and experiencing a change of scenery.

“As cardiologists, we want our heart patients to continue to get out and experience life to the fullest because we know it’s good for the body and mind. For many patients, travel is a priority, so I like to give them the tools and information they need to feel healthy and safe enough to do so without added anxiety.”

Dr. Tolia’s Top Tips for Traveling with a Heart Condition

• Talk to your cardiologist. If you’re concerned about an upcoming trip, check in with your doctor, who can provide helpful guidance and/or reassurance. Depending on your history and condition, your cardiologist may have specific recommendations (e.g., wear compression stockings during flights, watch sodium intake, etc.).
• Get your prescriptions ready. Be sure to have enough medication to cover your trip – and even a few days’ extra, particularly if you’re flying (flight delays and cancellations are at an all-time high). Also, bring a comprehensive medication list in case they get misplaced and you need to have them refilled.
• Research local medical care. Identify the nearest/best medical facility where you’re going and look into what your health insurance may cover. You may want to bring a copy of your most pertinent medical records (which can be made available via WakeMed MyChart).
• Think about diet. While you don’t have to obsess about everything you eat, remember that eating out often means more sodium, fat and calories. Particularly for those patients with cardiomyopathy and/or heart failure, pay attention to your fluid and sodium intake throughout the trip.
• Let technology help. If you’re the anxious type, and you’d find comfort in keeping tabs on certain vital signs (e.g., heart rate/rhythm, pulse oxygen, etc.) consider bringing or wearing something such as the Apple Watch, FitBit, Kardia Mobile or a pulse oximetry device. These devices can help you identify any potential concerns early and may offer peace of mind.

The Many Benefits of Travel

Getting out of your element isn’t just fun — it can be good for you, too. Here are just a few of the benefits.

It Can Improve Your Cardiovascular & Metabolic Health.

A study published in the American Journal of Epidemiology in 1992 found that women who took very few vacations (less than one every 6 years) were twice as likely to have a heart attack or experience coronary death than those women who had several breaks per year. A similar study found that men who took fewer vacations were far more likely to die from coronary heart disease than those who took more vacations. Lastly, a 2019 study published in the journal Psychology & Health found those who took more vacation days had fewer metabolic syndrome incidences or symptoms than those who didn’t — and that the risk for metabolic syndrome ‘decreased by nearly a quarter with each additional vacation taken.’

Travel Keeps You Moving.

Whether you’re lifting luggage, trekking the airport or taking a stroll through a museum, you’ll likely get more ‘steps’ and overall movement when you’re traveling. The best part? It won’t even feel like exercise!

Vacations Can Help Lower Stress.

Numerous studies have shown that vacations can help reduce stress. Since stress is known to negatively impact blood pressure and cholesterol — travel can officially be considered good for your heart! And, research has shown that these effects can be felt during the weeks leading up to and after the vacation — amplifying the power of travel beyond just the trip itself.

It Helps You Stay Connected.

Taking a vacation to visit with family or friends can help decrease feelings of loneliness and social isolation, both of which have been linked to higher risk for cardiovascular disease in post-menopausal women. And, even if you travel alone, making connections with strangers while travelling can decrease these feelings.

Planning and Taking Trips Can Actually Make You Happier.

A 2014 study from Cornell University showed how the anticipation of an experience like travel (as opposed to buying material goods) can significantly increase a person’s happiness. Another study demonstrated that people who have a trip planned are at their happiest.

Short Stay Vacations: Quick Trips From the Triangle

For patients who don’t feel comfortable traveling overseas, or even getting on an airplane, consider local travel. We’re fortunate to live close to the mountains and coast, with plenty of destinations in between. Here are some popular spots to consider:

• Southern Pines/Pinehurst: Under 90 minutes
• Kinston: Approximately 90 minutes
• Wilmington/Wrightsville Beach: Approximately two hours
• New Bern: Approximately two hours
• Boone/Blowing Rock: Approximately three hours

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