Publication details
Travelling seniors - cardiovascular and other risks
| Authors | |
|---|---|
| Year of publication | 2010 |
| Type | Article in Periodical |
| Magazine / Source | Belgorod State University Scientific bulletin. Medicine Pharmacy |
| MU Faculty or unit | |
| Citation | |
| Field | Cardiovascular diseases incl. cardiosurgery |
| Keywords | Senior traveller; Economy class syndrome; Traveller diarrhoea; Vaccination; Preventative and prophylactic measures for travel |
| Description | Travelling seniors, cardiovascular and other risks. The number of seniors undertaking longer and more demanding journeys at an advanced age has been on the increase. Chronic illnesses together with the physical and mental demands of travelling make seniors vulnerable. Geriatricians and general practitioners should be able to assess the risks that could lead to the deterioration of the condition during travel and to co-operate with the travellers to minimise such risks. The article analyses the cardiovascular risks associated with long flights and stays in a hot climate: complications of ischaemic heart disease, especially certain correlates of myocardial infarction during travel for which the identified risk factors included short-term planning of the journey, unusual destinations, a lower level of education, life in partnership, travel by car in comparison with other means of transport, accommodation in tents, trailers or caravans as compared to accommodation in a hotel. In terms of time, acute complications mostly occurred during the first two days of travel. Thromboembolic complications are discussed with regard to the new aspects of economy class syndrome. Attention is also given to arrhythmias, complications of hypertension, circulation failures, diarrhoeas, and their possible consequences. The article is concluded with two case histories and a table of recommendations for the minimisation of travel-related risks. |