If you have booked a long haul flight for your next vacation, you may have some concerns about Deep Vein Thrombosis, or DVT. Often referred to as Economy Class Syndrome, untreated DVT can lead to life-threatening complications, so being aware of what it is and how to prevent it is vital.

What is DVT?

In the simplest terms possible, DVT is the medical name for when a clot forms in a vein, deep within the body. In the majority of cases of DVT, clots form in the femoral vein or in the veins of the pelvis.

What are the symptoms of DVT?

One of the dangers of DVT is that it is possible for a sufferer to have no symptoms. However, in most cases, inflammation, redness of the limb and discomfort will occur.

What is the connection between long-haul flights and DVT?

The occurrence of DVT in people travelling on long-haul flights is one which has been studied in great detail. The WRIGHT project investigated the connection and found that the risk of DVT does increase for individuals taking flights of a duration greater than four hours. It is believed that risk of DVT increases during long flights mainly due to dehydration and sitting still for extended periods.

Additionally, there are certain groups of people who are at greater risk of developing DVT when flying : those who have had recent surgery, the very elderly, those with medical obesity and those taking certain types of contraceptive pills. If you fit into any of these groups and are worried about flying and DVT, talk to your doctor for advice and reassurance.

How can I prevent DVT?

There are a number of things that you can do to reduce your risk of DVT when flying long haul.

ñ  It isn’t always easy, but move around as much as possible during the flight. Wander up and down the aisle every hour or so to stretch your legs and keep the blood circulation healthy.

ñ  You can also exercise by performing calf and foot stretches while in your seat. Alternate between pressing the heel and ball of your foot into the floor, rotate your ankles in circles etc., as frequently as possible.

ñ  Avoid alcoholic drinks and coffee. Instead sip at water before and during your flight which will help to prevent dehydration.

ñ  Invest in a pair of graduated compression elastic stockings, which are available from good pharmacists. Several studies have shown that these are useful in reducing the risk of DVT.

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