What causes deep vein thrombosis (DVT), and can this in-flight medical condition be a serious risk for air travelers?
Deep vein thrombosis happens when a blood clot forms in the lower leg. If the clot breaks off, it may travel to the lungs. That can then be fatal. If you have symptoms such as pain, redness and swelling in a leg, you should seek medical help as soon as possible.
What can contribute to the above symptoms?
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 by increasing circulation in your legs. Many experts suggest wearing loose clothing and avoiding tight fitting pants or stockings, movie and exercise 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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