Can you get DVT from a long flight?
Can you get DVT from a long flight? Blood clots can sometimes form in your legs during air travel because you are immobile for long periods of time, often sitting in cramped spaces with little leg room. The clinical term for this type of blood clot is deep vein thrombosis (DVT). The longer the flight, the more at risk you are for developing a clot.
What is considered a long flight for blood clots?
Traveling longer than 8 hours, whether by plane, car, bus, or train, can increase risks for life-threatening blood clot. The risk of a blood clot is about 3-times higher for people traveling on long-distance flights.
How common is DVT on long flights?
Even if you travel a long distance, the risk of developing a blood clot is generally very small. Your level of risk depends on the duration of travel as well as whether you have any other risks for blood clots.
How long does DVT take to develop after a flight?
DVT or PE may manifest during or shortly after the flight, but often not for several weeks. Prevention includes choosing aisle seating, maintaining hydration, walking frequently, wearing loose clothing, exercising the lower extremities, using a foot rest, and avoiding alcohol and sleeping pills.
How do you avoid DVT on long flights?
- Move around as much as possible.
- Choose an aisle seat where feasible as this is known to encourage moving around during the journey .
- Carry out calf muscle exercises: ...
- Try to avoid placing cabin baggage where it can restrict your leg movement.
Does aspirin prevent blood clots when flying?
Talk to your doctor about wearing compression stockings or taking medicine before departure if you have additional risk factors for blood clots. Taking aspirin to prevent blood clots when traveling is not recommended.