Deep Vein Thrombosis – Steps To Prevent Them When You Are Flying
When you fly in an airplane, the altitude you are at puts you at around 40,000 feet. At these altitudes, the air pressure is equivalent to around 6,000 to 8,000 feet above sea level. At these pressure, the amount of oxygen in your blood is reduced and the gases within your body will expand. That is one of the reasons why your ears will pop! If you are flying long distance and sit too long, this can lead to the pooling of blood in the legs. Which can lead to the development of clot in your legs (called Deep-Vein Thrombosis). Lack of circulation decreases blood circulation back to the heart. Because the mechanism to circulating your blood back to your heart is decreased, your legs may swell.
DVT has been called the economy class syndrome (when you are squashed in the cattle class!). But this can also happen when you travel business class. So when you are flying, be sure to take a few steps to preven this from happening to you. And you will feel more comfortable as well.
Those more at risk – Some folks are also more at risk of developing DVT than others. Below is a list that you might want to be aware of:
* Personal or family history of DVT.
* Recent surgery or injury, especially to lower limbs or abdomen.
* Blood disorders leading to increased clotting tendency.
* Oestrogen hormone therapy, including oral contraceptives.
* Pregnancy.
* Tobacco smoking.
* Obesity.
* Dehydration.
* Heart failure.
* Varicose veins.
To sum up, walk often and do those little exercises in the plane to help prevent DVT. If you are more at risk, it is best to consult a doctor to see if you need any extra medication.
