licking the shore is the perfect vacation scenario. Others yearn to spend time in the shadow of majestic mountain peaks, beside clear, cold streams full of fish. Some people, however, would simply opt for uninterrupted solitude with time to read a good book, or pursue a favorite hobby. "Whatever kind of vacation you choose,"

"For people who have been diagnosed with cardiovascular disease, vacations will require a little more planning. Certainly, you can have fun," the cardiologist continued, "there are just more factors to consider before leaving home. While we might have been willing victims to the seductive kiss of the sun when we were younger, for example, soaring temperatures and too much direct sunlight on aging skin can be a dangerous combination."  Here are some of Dr. Amell’s suggestions to help cardiac patients enjoy their leisure time and stay healthy, too:

• Following a heart attack or bypass surgery, the normal period of recovery before a vacation or a trip away from home is about six weeks. This depends, of course, on the person and their overall condition, the destination, and the length of stay. If you participate in a cardiac rehab program and are used to getting regular exercise, this may weigh in your favor. In any case, an exam by your cardiologist will help determine your readiness for travel. When outlining your vacation plans for your doctor, be honest about what you plan to do. If you plan to climb a mountain or go on long hikes in the woods, let your doctor know so that he can evaluate --realistically -- your ability to accomplish what might be required of you.

• Don’t forget the realities of travel during your planning. Remember the stressful side of travel, as well, and ask yourself if you are ready for things like flight delays, missed connections, lost luggage, car breakdowns, etc., etc. If you cannot honestly answer, "Yes," to that question, perhaps it would be better to rethink your plans or to postpone your trip until you are up to it. 

One of the most important considerations for heart patients in planning a vacation is whether or not there will be competent medical personnel and facilities available at your destination. Ask your doctor if he knows any medical specialists where you are going. Take a complete set of your medical records with you -- two copies, if possible; one in your luggage, and one to carry with you at all times. Ask your doctor for a current EKG strip, and include your prescription records and insurance information in the packet, as well. For those with pacemakers, always carry your pacemaker emergency card that outlines the type of equipment and date of implantation. 
 
• Build up your strength before you leave and know your limitations. Make sure that you won’t have to push yourself beyond reasonable endurance levels. Don’t run yourself ragged with last minute detains before you leave town; save your energy for having fun. 

Advise your travel agent of any special health problems and requirements you may have so that appropriate arrangements can be made for you. If you would feel more comfortable, for example, having a wheelchair meet your flight to expedite getting to the next gate, by all means do so. Your travel agent can also request special meals for you on airplanes and cruise ships that will allow you to stay within any dietary limitations. You don’t have to abandon heart healthy eating habits just because you are on vacation. 
 
• DO NOT FORGET YOUR MEDICATIONS, and take them as prescribed. 

• Be realistic about the baggage you can manage. Be sensible in deciding what you simply must take with you and what you can just as easily leave at home. Use a cart or get assistance whenever it is necessary to move your suitcases; there is nothing to be gained in struggling with them unnecessarily, and an injury which might result could ruin your vacation altogether.

Dr. Amell recommends that you remind yourself -- frequently, if necessary -- that the purpose of your vacation is to relax and have fun. If you use good common sense, follow your doctor’s recommendations, and take the necessary precautions your heart condition won’t get in the way at all. 

The dictionary definition of vacation is "a period of rest." Achieving this objective could be exactly what the doctor ordered!

Specializing in the prevention, early detection and comprehensive treatment of cardiovascular disease.

• Accreditated by the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations
• On-site Cardiac Catheterization Suite and CLIA Certified Lab
• On-site Wellness and Prevention Center with Cardiac and Pulmonary Rehabilitation Programs
• American Heart Association Recognized CPR Training Center
• Community Outreach Programs, including Speakers Bureau,

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