Take some steps to prevent DVT
It’s called “Coach Class Syndrome”, but it can strike top-class fliers, too. Business travelers, especially those who spend much time flying, can be at higher risk of developing deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a potentially fatal condition.
According to the American Heart Association (AHA), long flights with cramped legroom - along with other factors such as low cabin pressure, low humidity and dehydration - can contribute to DVT.
DVT occurs when blood clots form in the body’s deep veins, particularly those in the legs. Sometimes the clot breaks off and ends up obstructing a lung vessel, which is called pulmonary embolism - and it can be fatal.
The DVT risk is higher for people who have a history of cardiovascular disease, stroke or thrombotic episodes, as well as those who have had surgery - especially orthopedic surgery on the lower extremities. But DVT can affect anyone, including healthy athletes.
Often it does not cause symptoms, and it can be difficult to detect, so it’s wise to take preventative measures.
These sensible precautions can lower your risk:
- Keep yourself hydrated. `
- Drink extra water.
- Avoid consumption of alcoholic beverages while flying.
- Get up, stretch and walk the cabin aisle every couple of hours.
- With heightened security concerns on commercial airliners, you may wish to let a flight attendant know what you’re doing.
- According to the AMA, studies of healthy people indicate that wearing “compression stockings” after long flights may help minimize the risk of developing DVT. These stockings put pressure on leg muscles and help return blood flow from the legs to the heart.
- People with cardiovascular disease and those at risk for clots in their legs may benefit from taking aspirin or a single dose of the prescription drug heparin before flights. Both can help prevent clots from forming. Consult your doctor first.
