Traveler’s thrombosis

Traveler’s thrombosis or Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) is a condition in which the patient suffers a clot or thrombus forms in a deep vein in the leg.

Causes: Traveler’s thrombosis is the result of lack of movement on a long flight. Some of the chief causes are:

  • Prolonged sitting and little or no movement in narrow seats and rows resulting in pressure on the upper thighs.
  • Very little air humidity on board causes blood clots when passengers lack fluids.
  • Clots leading to pain and swelling in the leg.

Symptoms

  • Redness and/or warmth of the skin
  • Pain in the calf or behind the knee
  • Swelling of the foot and/or lower leg
  • Shortness of breath with or without chest pain signifies that a clot traveled to the lungs or embolized, a condition called Pulmonary Embolus (PE)

Diagnosis: DVT or traveler’s thrombosis is diagnosed by ultrasound imaging tests, which show the flow of blood in the veins and show clot formation. To stabilize clots, a blood-thinning medication is given. While the treatment is on, hospitalization may be required when patients are also given oral medication which continues for several months afterwards to restore the normal blood flow through the vein.

Who can get it: Anyone who sits for indefinite periods during a long-haul flight can get DVT. The risk is increased if one is pregnant or is in her post-natal period or is 60 years and above, has proven heart diseases, has a family history of vascular diseases, large varicose veins, chronic venous insufficiency and is on ovulation suppressors or hormone replacement therapy. Other factors include malignant tumors, leg injuries or post-operative recovery or venous thromboembolism.

Treatment: If you suffer from DVT, try stretching out your legs or change your sitting position often. Drink a lot of fluids and take sedatives. In addition, wear compression stockings, if you suffer from venous insufficiency. If you are pregnant, use low molecular weight heparin.

Preventing DVT: Here’s how you can prevent getting symptoms of DVT:

  • While still in your seat, do calf exercises and heel/toe lifts to keep the blood circulation going. Massage your ankles, feet, legs, lower legs and calf muscles.
  • Sit comfortably and do not cross your legs.
  • Try to sit where you can get enough leg room such as an aisle, or bulkhead seat or in the exit row.
  • Drink a lot of fluids, but avoid caffeinated drinks and alcohol or caffeine, as they can dehydrate you.
  • Don’t smoke.
  • Wear loose clothing.
  • Wear good hosiery but not tight stockings that are tight around the ankles or below the knees as this will hamper venous circulation.
  • Check with your doctor for preventives for DVT, if you are prone to it. Aspirin or low molecular weight heparin usually prevents clotting.
  • Don’t take sleep aids on the flight as it will make you immobile for many hours.

Take these precautions and you will not suffer from DVT while traveling for long hours.