Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
IN TRANSIT
Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)
Blood clots can form in the legs during flights, chiefly because of prolonged immobility.
This formation of clots is known as deep vein thrombosis (DVT), and the longer the flight,
the greater the risk. Although most blood clots are reabsorbed uneventfully, some might
break off and travel through the blood vessels to the lungs, where they could cause life-
threatening complications.
The chief symptom of DVT is swelling or pain of the foot, ankle or calf, usually but not
always on just one side. When a blood clot travels to the lungs, it could cause chest pain
and breathing difficulty. Travellers with any of these symptoms should immediately seek
medical attention.
To prevent the development of DVT on long flights you should walk about the cabin,
perform isometric compressions of the leg muscles (ie contract the leg muscles while sit-
ting), drink plenty of fluids, and avoid alcohol.
