Crammed up seats with poor leg space and restricted movement can increase your risk for Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT). DVT refers to the swelling and blood clot in the deep vein in the leg which can lead to more life threatening complications like Pulmonary Embolism (PE), a blockage in the lung.
Deep Vein Thrombosis is not necessarily related to air travel or drinking alone but may develop as a complication to pregnancy, obesity, cancer, recent surgery, extended hospitalization or being bedridden for long, aging etc. Air travel for long durations with an increased frequency increases the travelers risk for blood clots in the vein. A window seat usually restricts the movement of the person due to the crammed up seat and the discomfort his oft getting up may cause to the others. The aisle is out of reach and so are the washrooms, the refreshments and a walk for some ‘fresh air’. This hikes the risk of dehydration in the passenger which in turn may augment the risk of Deep Vein Thrombosis.
Earlier studies preferred to call DVT an “Economic Class Syndrome”. These studies pointed out that Deep Vein Thrombosis affected passengers travelling in the Economic Class in the window seats more than those travelling in the Business Classes. But newer studies point out that in women, it was not only being immobile for long, an inflight drink or dehydration but also contraceptive pills which contributed to Deep Vein Thrombosis.
Warning Signs of Deep Vein Thrombosis and Pulmonary Embolism
- tenderness or pain in the calf
- warmth and redness
- swelling in the area
- shortness of breath
- a rapid heart rate
- stabbing pain in the chest
- an unexplained cough.
Preventing Deep Vein Thrombosis and Pulmonary Embolism
- prefer the aisle seat in long travels
- try to keep your thighs clear of the edge of your seat.
- use foot rests as far as possible particularly if you are at risk
- walk around as often as possible
- drink a lot of fluids
- stretch your calf muscles
- reduce alcohol during travelling
- ask your doctor if compression stockings help you
To lower your risks have garlic and turmeric in your daily diet for better blood circulation. Get concentrated curcumin (the active compounds in turmeric) in more convenient capsule form in VITAMERIC.
Enjoy your flight!
-Aparna K.V.
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I do travel several times a year and it is indeed sometimes inconvenient to sit for a long period of time at the airplane or even when traveling by land. I sometimes stand up and stretch my body, especially my legs.. Your tips are great and helpful too. Thanks!
as a frequent air traveller myself, these are excellent and little known tips. As a precaution i also avoid coffee or if i drink coffee before flying i make sure that i drink a small water bottle to keep myself and my kidneys hydrated. Keep up the good work here!
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Thank you, one and all. DVT is an often overlooked factor among frequent travellers. Please let us know what topics (health) you would like to read more of.
Aparna
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