Travel & Thrombosis: Hidden Risk on Long Flights

General
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We all love travelling, but long hours sitting on a plane or in a car can quietly increase the risk of blood clots, medically known as deep vein thrombosis (DVT).

Why It Happens:

When you sit still for long periods, blood flow in your legs slows down. This stagnation increases the chance of clot formation, especially in people with risk factors like obesity, smoking, recent surgery, pregnancy or clotting disorders.

Signs to Watch For:

  • Swelling or pain in one leg

  • Warmth or redness along a vein

  • Sudden shortness of breath (seek emergency help immediately!)

Simple Ways to Stay Safe:

  1. Move Often : Stand up and walk every 1–2 hours.

  2. Leg Exercise: Flex and extend your ankles and knees while seated.

  3. Stay Hydrate: Avoid excessive alcohol and caffeine, which can dehydrate you.

  4. Compression Stockings: These can improve circulation for high-risk travelers.

  5. Medical Advice: People with prior clots or significant risk factors should consult their doctor before long trips.

Even though the risk is low for healthy individuals, awareness is key. Small actions during your journey can prevent serious complications.

Have you ever tried specific in-flight exercises or strategies to stay safe on long trips? Which worked best for you?

MBH/PS

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Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a serious, often silent, risk of long-haul travel, resulting from slow blood flow in the legs due to prolonged sitting. The key to prevention is continuous movement: I personally find that setting a timer to get up and walk down the aisle every 90 minutes is essential, supplemented by simple seated ankle circles and calf stretches to keep the blood flowing. Additionally, prioritizing water intake and avoiding excess caffeine drastically reduces dehydration and blood thickening. These small, consistent actions are the most effective strategies for maintaining circulation and ensuring a safe, healthy journey.

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