How to reduce your chances of getting DVT
Whether you’re jetting off for some winter sun or a summer escape, it’s important to prevent deep vein thrombosis (DVT) while you’re in the air.
By following some simple do’s and don’ts, you can reduce your risk of developing a dangerous blood clot forming in your leg..
What is DVT?
“Generally in the lower limbs, (DVT) can occasionally occur in upper limbs,” says GP Dr Suhail Hussain (drsuhailhussain.com).
The condition is believed to affect around one in every 1,000 people in the UK, and usually only occurs in one leg.
“Possible symptoms of DVT can include a painful or tender leg for no obvious reason – this can be above knee, below knee or both,” says Professor Mark Whiteley (thewhiteleyclinic.co.uk).
Swelling can occur from the ankle upwards or even the whole leg, he says. “Other symptoms include a heavy ache in the leg, especially on standing or walking; warm skin in the area of swelling; and sometimes the skin can be a bit redder, but this is less common.”
Generally, DVT is not a major problem as long as it is diagnosed and treated immediately, but “it can develop into PE (pulmonary embolism), a blood clot on the lung which can be life-threatening, so [we] should not ignore signs and symptoms of DVT,” Hussain says.
Why does DVT occur on long-haul flights?
One of the risk factors for DVT is long periods of inactivity, which is why it’s more likely to occur on lengthy flights.
Other factors can play a part, he warns: “Such as having a family history of DVT, large varicose veins or cancer, people who are pregnant or have recently undergone major surgery.”
Stretch your legs
The most important thing you can do to prevent DVT is not stay in your seat for the whole flight.
“Go for a walk up and down the cabin aisle at least once per hour, particularly if it is a flight over four hours,” says Whiteley.
While seated, keep your legs moving, he adds: “Try calf exercises – most airlines have a booklet in the seat pocket. A simple one is to regularly flex and extend your ankles.”
Stay hydrated
Hydration is also key for preventing DVT. While it may be tempting to indulge in a cold beer or glass of wine, you’d do better sticking primarily to H2O.
Hussain recommends avoiding sleeping pills or alcoholic drinks. “If you’re sleeping you can’t get up”.
Wear compression socks
“Compression socks speed up the flow of blood in the veins and therefore reduce the risk of the blood clotting,” Whiteley suggests.
Avoid flying if you’re high risk
“Once you’ve had one blood clot, the risk of a subsequent one increases,” Hussain warns, which is why he advises avoiding flights if you’ve had DVT recently.