Risk of Long Flights & Blood Clots

Sitting for any prolonged period, such as on a long airline flight, can help cause blood clots to form in the deep veins of your legs. This is called deep vein thrombosis (DVT).

Symptoms

DVT can lead to swelling, tenderness and redness in your leg. However, you may not experience any symptoms.

Effects

If part of a clot breaks free, it can flow upstream, block the flow of blood and cause problems in your circulatory system. It can even play a role in heart attack, pulmonary embolism or stroke.

Risk Groups

People most at risk of developing DVT include women, people over 40 years old and those who are pregnant. If someone in your family had DVT before age 35, your risk is greater.

Risk Factors

Other risk factors include smoking, irritable bowel disease, obesity, previous DVT, family history of DVT, or using birth control or hormone replacements. If you have more than one risk factor, your risk of developing DVT is doubled.

Prevention

Drinking plenty of water and avoid caffeine and alcohol. While seated, curl your toes and few times or press them firmly against the ground every 15 to 30 minutes. Don't keep your legs crossed. Get up and walk to the bathroom once an hour to exercise your legs and walk around the airport during layovers. You can also wear compression stockings.

References

• DVT After a Long Flight
• DVT Prevention