Deep Vein Thrombosis
Following the publicity
surrounding a recent report
by the House of Lords on the effects of air travel on health, many people
are evaluating their personal risk of Deep Vein Thrombosis.
A Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)
is a clotting of the blood in the deep vein of the lower leg. If a clot develops
in the veins, it usually makes its presence known by a pain in the
affected calf.
Medical attention should be
sought immediately if this occurs, especially after a long flight. In some cases
this can become fatal if the clot breaks off and makes its way to the lungs
where it can then affect the lung’s ability to take in oxygen.
It is hard to establish just
how many people are affected by DVT after a long flight as no official records
are kept. However, it is important to be aware that it is a potential risk to
any traveller due to the facts we already know.
·
Those in a high
risk category should see their doctor before they travel and discuss prevention
– smokers, pregnant women, elderly travellers, those who are overweight, women
taking oral contraceptives, individuals who have undergone recent surgery, as
well as those with an existing medical condition.
·
Some people in
the "at risk" category mentioned above should discuss with their
health professional the possibility of taking a small dose of aspirin before
they fly.
·
These days, the
personal entertainment available on many airplanes encourages us to stay rooted
to our seats. However, try to exercise at least every half an hour on long
flights to exercise the muscles pumping blood back to the heart. This might mean
rotating your ankles, or getting up for a quick walk up and down the aisles.
Even though DVT is often referred to as "Economy Class Syndrome",
passengers in first and business class are equally at risk. The risk also
applies to other forms of travel, such as coach or bus travel where you stay
seated for hours at the time.
·
Travel Socks are
an effective way of assisting your body’s natural mechanism of returning blood
to the heart. They work by applying a gentle graduated pressure on your ankle
and calf.
·
Loose clothing is
essential on a long flight. Because of the change in atmospheric pressure in a
plane, parts of your body can expand due to increased gas! Allow room for
expansion with loose fitting clothing.
·
It is a
well-documented fact that too much alcohol, tea and coffee on flights causes
dehydration. Also bear in mind that air in a plane is very dry and the
temperature warmer that we might normally have it at home. It is therefore very
important to remain hydrated during a long flight by drinking plenty of water
and fruit juices.
·
Do not cross your
legs, it restricts the blood flow! Remove your shoes, relax and enjoy your
flight!
Flight
Goods are available at The Health Station
