Use this page to access key information about Deep Vein Thrombosis.
- Find generic information about Deep Vein Thrombosis and tip on how to avoid symptoms of Deep Vein Thrombosis.
- Gleam more specific information about Deep Vein Thrombosis treatment.
- Find tips on prevention of Deep Vein Thrombosis and if it can be prevented at all.
Deep vein thrombosis
Flying and deep vein thrombosis
Any period of immobility can increase the risk of blood clots forming in deep veins such as in the thigh – the disease known as deep vein thrombosis. A cramped car journey can be as hazardous as air travel, but flights do keep people immobile for longer than most activities and it is worth bearing the risk in mind.
Risks
- Previous personal or family history of deep vein thrombosis
- Certain forms of heart disease or a history of cancer
- Abnormalities in blood clotting factors
- Hormone treatments such as the oral contraceptive pill and oestrogen-based HRT
- Steroids
- Pregnancy
- Recent major surgery or injury, particularly affecting the lower limbs or abdomen
- Recent immobilisation for a day or more
To aid deep vein thrombosis prevention, those people at a high risk should receive heparin injections to thin the blood before travelling.
Myths
- Alcohol does not increase the risks (although it does have other ill-effects).
- There seems to be little benefit from drinking lots of fluids.
- Taking aspirin does not reduce the risk and can cause stomach bleeding and allergic reactions.
- Deep vein thrombosis can occur just as much in first or business class as in economy class.
Truths
- Flight socks lower the risk.
- Leg exercises while sitting are probably beneficial.
- The risk increases the longer the flight – doubling or even quadrupling for flights over 10 hours.
- Smoking is a dangerous practice and may well increase risks.
