Commercial Air Travel - How Can You Avoid Deep-Vein Thrombosis?

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What causes deep vein thrombosis (DVT), and can this in-flight medical condition be a serious risk for air travelers?

Deep vein thrombosis can occur when a blood clot forms in the lower leg. If the clot breaks off, it could travel to the lungs which can then be fatal. If symptoms develop such as pain, redness and swelling in a leg, you should seek medical help immediately.

What can contribute to the above symptoms?

DVT can develop in your lower legs anytime, especially when you sit in one position for an extended period of time without moving. Some research findings show that you are at three times the risk of developing this serious medical condition when you fly. Driving, traveling by bus or train, and even sitting in your comfortable easy chair at home can cause it.

How can air passengers protect themselves from this life-threatening condition?

You can help prevent this condition from happening by increasing circulation in your legs. A number of experts suggest wearing loose clothing and avoiding tight fitting pants or stockings, move and exercise your legs frequently when sitting, changing your sitting position often, not sitting with you legs crossed, walk up and down the aisle every half-hour or so and drinking lots of water so you will not become dehydrated.

Obesity, or using oral contraceptives can 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.