Deep Vein Thrombosis
The risk of deep vein thrombosis (which is a blood clot in the veins deep within the legs) and air travel has been well documented recently. There is also a risk of DVT with any journeys where you are unable to walk around normally for a prolonged journey, for example long coach journeys.
Follow this advice to reduce the risk of DVT during travel:
- Get 'flight socks' (most of the local pharmacies stock them) and use them during travel.
- Stay hydrated whilst travelling - drink plenty of water (rather than alcohol).
- Exercise the muscles of your calf at regular and frequent intervals during travel. You can do this by
- whilst in your seat push the heel of your foot firmly into the floor and maintain this position for a few seconds before relaxing. Keep repeating this for a few minutes at regular intervals.
- whilst in your seat push your toes firmly into the floor until you are on tip-toes. Maintain this position for a few seconds before relaxing and then keep repeating for a few minutes at regular intervals.
- get up and walk around in the aisles for a few minutes every 30 minutes or so to stretch your legs.