Is it safe to fly with a swollen leg?


Is it safe to fly with a swollen leg? If you have swelling in only one leg and also have leg pain, seek prompt medical care. If you're at increased risk of blood clots, talk with your health care provider before flying. You may be at increased risk of blood clots if you recently had major surgery or you take birth control pills, for example.


How do you drain edema fluid from your legs?

Lifestyle and home remedies
  1. Use pressure. If edema affects an arm or leg, wearing compression stockings, sleeves or gloves might help. ...
  2. Move. Moving and using the muscles in the part of the body that's swollen, especially the legs, might help move fluid back toward the heart. ...
  3. Raise. ...
  4. Massage. ...
  5. Protect. ...
  6. Reduce salt.


What helps with swelling when flying?

10 Ways to Prevent Swollen Feet During Travel
  • Drink Water Throughout Your Travels. ...
  • Watch Your Diet and Avoid Salty Foods. ...
  • Reach for a Pair of Compression Socks. ...
  • Stretch Your Legs on Long Flights. ...
  • Give Your Feet a Seated Workout. ...
  • Stow Bags Overhead to Maximize Legroom. ...
  • Don't Cross Your Legs.


Does flying make swelling worse?

Leg and foot swelling during air travel is common and typically harmless. The most likely culprit is inactivity during a flight. Sitting with your feet on the floor for a long period causes blood to pool in your leg veins. The position of your legs when you are seated also increases pressure in your leg veins.


Should I wear compression socks on a plane?

Compression socks prevent swelling
Being able to stand up and walk around or stretching is limited on a plane; therefore, promoting blood circulation is necessary. “Compression socks help to increase circulation, thus preventing swelling in your lower legs and feet,” he explains.