DVT Precautions During Flight

It has been reported that some airline passengers may have developed clots in deep blood vessels, often in the lower part of their legs, because they sat for a long time without exercise or movement.

This condition is known medically as deep vein thrombosis (DVT). If blood clot fragments break off and lodge in other areas of the body, such as the lungs, they may cause a possibly fatal pulmonary thrombosis when a person starts walking after being immobile for a long time.

DVT has been termed, "Economy class syndrome" because there have been some cases linked to airline passengers who travelled in Economy Class.

However, this is inappropriate and misleading. DVT is not "class-conscious" but may affect any traveller in other classes and in other forms of transport, including cars, trains, buses and other vehicles, if they sit down for a long time without taking exercise.

Even theatre-goers can be at risk. Here are risk factors for DVT: varicose veins, recent surgery or injury in the lower legs, malignant diseases, past history of DVT, increased blood coagulation, obesity, use of oral contraceptives, pregnancy and recent childbirth.

Anyone with any of these risk factors is advised to consult a doctor before flying to find out how to prevent DVT.

Precautions during flight

Exercise your legs periodically.

Breathe deeply.

Drink plenty of fluids.

Avoid heavy alcohol consumption.

Wear loose clothing, which is not too tight.

Early DVT symptoms : Pain, swelling, redness in the lower leg, call your doctor if you have those symptoms.

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