Flying can be exciting. Perhaps you are off on holiday, seeing relatives, or off to work somewhere. However, long flights, particularly those that take more than four hours, can do you harm. One of the greatest health hazards of long air travel is Deep Vein Thrombosis, or DVT.
Most individuals do not consider this risk when they book a flight. You can pack your luggage, double-check your passport, and pick your seat on the aircraft, but not many individuals take into account the possibility of a blood clot in the leg when they have to sit for hours on end. In this blog, we will discuss what DVT is, how it develops, and why flying can exacerbate it. We will cover how you can help protect yourself and when to contact your doctor.
What DVT Is and How It Develops
DVT stands for Deep Vein Thrombosis. It is a serious condition where a blood clot forms in a deep vein, usually in your legs. Veins carry blood back to your heart, and when a clot forms, it can block this flow. This can be painful and dangerous.
The biggest danger of DVT is that the blood clot can break off and travel to your lungs. When this happens, itโs called a pulmonary embolism, or PE. A PE can stop your lungs from working properly and may even cause death if not treated quickly. This is why DVT should always be taken seriously.
DVT can happen to anyone, but people who sit for long periods of time without moving, such as during long airplane flights, are at higher risk. Sitting still for too long slows down blood flow in your legs. When the blood is not moving well, it has a better chance of clotting. This is why air travel can sometimes cause DVT to happen.
Common Symptoms of DVT
DVT does not always show clear signs. Some people may have it and not know it until it becomes worse. But there are some common symptoms that can help you spot the problem early. Itโs important to know these signs, especially after flying.
Swelling In The Leg or Calf
One of the most common signs of DVT is swelling in one leg, usually in the lower part like the calf or ankle. The leg may feel tight, heavy, or puffed up. This can happen suddenly or build up slowly.
Pain or Tenderness
You might feel pain in your leg even though you havenโt hurt it. The pain can feel like a cramp or a sore muscle. It usually gets worse when you walk or stand for long periods.
Redness or Discoloration of the Skin
The skin around the clot may look red or darker than usual. Some people also notice that their leg looks blue or purple. These color changes happen because the blood is not flowing as it should.
Warmth In The Affected Area
The area around the clot may feel warmer than the rest of your leg. This happens because the body is reacting to the clot and trying to fix the problem.
Why Air Travel Increases DVT Risk
Long flights are a common cause of DVT. You may wonder, โWhy does flying make it worse?โ The answer is simple. Flying changes how your body works in a few important ways.
Prolonged Sitting And Restricted Movement
When you fly, you usually sit still for a long time. Economy seats are often small, and you donโt have much room to stretch your legs. This makes it hard for blood to move freely in your lower legs. Slow blood flow can lead to clotting.
Dehydration From Low Cabin Humidity
Air inside a plane is very dry. The cabin has low humidity, which means your body loses water more easily. This can make your blood thicker and more likely to form a clot. Many people donโt drink enough water on flights, which adds to the risk.
Reduced Cabin Pressure and Its Effect on Circulation
Cabins are pressurized, but the air pressure is still lower than on the ground. This lower pressure reduces oxygen in your blood and can also slow down blood circulation. When blood flows slowly, it is easier for a clot to form.
Risk Factors for DVT During Flights
Anyone can get DVT, but some people have a higher risk than others. If you have one or more of these risk factors, it is even more important to take care when you fly.
Personal or Family History of Blood Clots
If you or someone in your family has had DVT or PE before, your chances of getting it again are higher. Some people also have inherited blood conditions that make clots more likely.
Age And Lifestyle Factors
People over 60 years old are at greater risk, especially during long flights. Smoking damages blood vessels, and obesity puts extra pressure on your veins, both of which can increase your chances of developing a clot.
Pregnancy and Recent Childbirth
During pregnancy, the body makes more blood to support the baby. This can lead to slower blood flow and more pressure in the veins. The risk continues for several weeks after childbirth.
Use Of Hormone Replacement Therapy or Birth Control Pills
Some hormone medications, like birth control pills and menopause treatment, contain estrogen. Estrogen can make blood more likely to clot, increasing your risk during flights.
Existing Medical Conditions
Certain health problems, such as cancer, heart disease, or clotting disorders can raise your risk of DVT. If youโve had recent surgery, especially on your legs, or if youโve been on bed rest, you should also be careful.
Preventive Measures During Flights
Thankfully, there are simple things you can do to lower your risk of DVT while flying. These tips are easy to follow and can make a big difference.
Staying Hydrated and Avoiding Excessive Alcohol or Caffeine
Drink lots of water during the flight to stay hydrated. Try to avoid drinking too much coffee, soda, or alcohol. These drinks can make your body lose water, which increases your risk of clotting.
Performing Leg Exercises and Stretches
You can move your legs even while sitting. Flex your feet up and down, move your ankles in circles, and stretch your legs when you can. These small movements help blood flow and reduce clotting.
Walking Around the Cabin Periodically
If the seatbelt sign is off, try to stand up and walk up and down the aisle every hour or so. Just a few steps can help your blood move better and reduce your risk of DVT.
Wearing Compression Stockings
Compression stockings are special socks that gently squeeze your legs. They help blood move through your veins and prevent it from pooling. Many travelers wear them on long flights, and doctors often recommend them for high-risk people.
Choosing An Aisle Seat For Easier Mobility
If possible, book an aisle seat. This makes it easier to stand up and walk around. Youโll also feel less pressure about disturbing other passengers if you need to move often.
Medical Precautions Before Flying
Some people should talk to a doctor before taking a long flight. If you have health problems or other risk factors, a quick check-up can give you peace of mind.
Consulting A Doctor
Let your doctor know if youโre flying soon, especially on a long trip. They may suggest a few extra steps to help protect you from DVT, like wearing compression socks or doing special exercises.
Discussing the Use of Blood-Thinning Medication
For people with a high risk of DVT, doctors may recommend a blood-thinning medicine before flying. This helps prevent clots by keeping your blood flowing freely.
Considering Medical Clearance
If youโve recently had surgery, especially on your legs or stomach, itโs important to check if youโre safe to fly. The same goes for serious illnesses or injuries. Your doctor can help you decide if itโs safe to travel and what precautions you need.
When to Seek Medical Help
Even with good planning, problems can still happen. Thatโs why itโs important to know when to get help. If you feel strange after a flight, donโt wait. Some symptoms are signs of a serious issue that needs fast treatment.
Warning Signs of DVT
After your flight, if you notice swelling, pain, or warmth in one leg, donโt ignore it. These signs may mean a clot is forming, and itโs better to get it checked early.
Urgent Signs of PE
If a clot travels to your lungs, it can block your breathing. This is a pulmonary embolism. If you suddenly have trouble breathing, feel chest pain, or cough up blood, go to the hospital right away. These are medical emergencies.
Seek Immediate Medical Help
DVT and PE can be dangerous or even deadly. If you have any of the symptoms mentioned, seek medical help immediately. Donโt wait and hope it goes away.
Follow-Up Care After Travel
Even if your symptoms are small, itโs smart to see a doctor after flying if you feel something isnโt right. Your doctor may do an ultrasound or blood test to check for clots. Catching a clot early can save your life.
Call Coastal Vascular Center
Flying to new places can be fun and exciting, but itโs important not to ignore your health along the way. DVT is a serious problem that can happen during long flights, especially if you sit still for many hours. But with a little planning, awareness, and care, you can lower your risk.
Remember to stay hydrated, move your legs often, walk when you can, and talk to your doctor if you have any risk factors. Simple steps can help you avoid a serious health problem and enjoy your journey safely.
If youโve ever had leg pain or swelling after flying, or if you have concerns about DVT or vein health, the team at Coastal Vascular Centre is here to help. They specialize in vascular care and have experience in treating DVT and other related issues. Whether you’re preparing for travel or following up after a trip, they can guide you toward better vein health and peace of mind.
