Airline Flights - How to Avoid Deep-vein Thrombosis When Flying
Published: 24/01/2010 by Dorothy Yamich
What causes the in-flight medical condition deep vein thrombosis (DVT), and can it be a serious risk for air travelers?
Deep vein thrombosis can occur when a blood clot forms in the lower leg. If the clot breaks off, it could travel to the lungs which can then be fatal. If symptoms develop such as pain, redness and swelling in a leg, you should seek medical help immediately.
What causes the above symptoms to develop?
DVT can happen in your lower legs at anytime, usually when you sit in one position for a long time without moving. Some research indicates that you are at three times the risk of developing this serious medical condition when you fly. Even driving, traveling by bus or train, or relaxing in your favorite easy chair at home can also cause it.
What can air passengers do to protect themselves from this life-threatening condition?
You can help prevent this condition from developing by increasing circulation in your legs. Some experts suggest wearing loose clothing and avoiding tight fitting pants or stockings, moving and exercising your legs frequently when sitting, changing your sitting position often, not sitting with you legs crossed, walking up and down the aisle every half-hour or so and drinking lots of water so you do not become dehydrated.
Obesity, or the use of oral contraceptives can also increase the risk of DVT.
If you are predisposed to any of the above risks, especially swelling of your legs and feet, you may want to book an aisle seat to give you a little more room to move and enable you to get up and walk around at anytime without disturbing your fellow passengers.
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