India, Aug. 2 -- A 56-year-old businessman recently visited my clinic after suffering a heart attack on the second day of an international vacation. An otherwise healthy, high-achieving professional, he had been working until the evening before his departure. A cardiologist colleague also shared a similar case. Increasingly, I have also seen people develop viral infections, severe diarrhea, fever, or uncontrolled blood pressure during holidays. These experiences highlight two lesser-known conditions-vacation heart syndrome and leisure sickness. While regular vacations are known to reduce long-term cardiovascular risk, the travel period itself can trigger acute heart problems in vulnerable individuals. Air travel places additional stress on the body through prolonged sitting, dehydration, cabin pressure changes, and disturbed sleep. Travel anxiety further activates stress hormones like adrenaline and cortisol, increasing heart rate and blood pressure. Medication non-adherence, dietary indulgence, alcohol intake, weather changes, and poor air quality can further elevate risk. Studies suggest the first 24-48 hours after air travel are the most vulnerable. People with heart disease should undergo a cardiac evaluation 4-6 weeks before travel, review medications 2-3 weeks prior and carry adequate travel insurance and an emergency plan. Another common but overlooked phenomenon is Leisure Sickness, where overworked individuals fall ill soon after beginning a vacation. A sudden drop in stress hormones, accumulated fatigue, and increased exposure to infections in crowded airports and airplanes are believed to contribute. The best preparation is to begin the vacation before the vacation. Slow down work a few days in advance, maintain regular sleep, meals, and physical activity, stay well hydrated during travel, continue prescribed medications, and use masks in crowded travel areas when appropriate. A well-planned vacation not only prevents illness but also ensures you return healthier and truly refreshed.In addition, people with pre-existing heart disease should avoid skipping medications or making abrupt lifestyle changes during travel. Changes in diet, excessive alcohol intake, altered physical activity, disrupted sleep schedules, unfamiliar weather conditions, and poor air quality can all act together to increase cardiovascular stress in susceptible individuals. Careful planning before departure, including timely medical consultation and optimization of treatment, can significantly reduce these risks. Equally important is recognizing that vacations are meant for recovery, not exhaustion. Allowing the body to gradually transition from a hectic work schedule to a relaxed holiday routine gives both the heart and the immune system time to adapt. A little preparation before travel can go a long way in ensuring that a memorable vacation does not turn into an avoidable medical emergency....