Long-haul flights can carry slight risk of DVT

DEEP vein thrombosis (DVT) is associated mainly with long-haul flights due to sitting in one position for so long.

While it is more common in older age groups (affecting around one in 1,000 mostly over-40s), it can affect younger people, and there are some specific risk factors that may apply to women.

Taking the contraceptive pill could increase the risk of DVT due to oestrogen in the pill, which can cause the blood to clot more easily. And being pregnant can see the weight of the baby reducing blood flow to the legs.

However, certain individuals may still be more likely to develop a clot, such as people who are overweight.

Also, having a condition or treatment such as cancer (and chemotherapy and radiotherapy), heart and lung disease or inflammatory bowel disease, should also be considered as factors of developing blood clots. If you’re concerned or unsure, speak to your GP for advice

Symptoms of DVT include pain, swelling, tenderness, a heavy ache in the affected area and warm, red skin. Often the pain can become more severe when you bend your foot upwards.

It’s important to get it checked by a medical professional as soon as possible.

A number of things are recommended to decrease the likelihood of DVT while flying. Compression socks can help speed up blood flow in the veins, and try not to stay in your seat in one position for too long either — have a stretch and move your feet and legs frequently.