TRAVELING AND DEEP VEIN THROMBOSIS:
WHAT IS THE LINK? Sitting for long hours while in transit is not just an issue of physical discomfort, but may also cause a potentially serious health problem. Deep vein thrombosis, more commonly known as “DVT”, happens when a blood clot develops in the veins of the legs. When these clots break loose, move to the bloodstream, and reach the lungs, it will obstruct blood flow, a condition known as pulmonary embolism (PE).
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Traveling and Deep Vein Thrombosis: What is the Link? Sitting for long hours while in transit is not just an issue of physical discomfort, but may also cause a potentially serious health problem. Deep vein thrombosis, more commonly known as “DVT�, happens when a blood clot develops in the veins of the legs. When these clots break loose, move to the bloodstream, and reach the lungs, it will obstruct blood flow, a condition known as pulmonary embolism (PE). Though caused by many factors, DVT often develops when a person experiences long periods of immobility, such as sitting in an airplane or a car. While the condition is rare, the complications are life threatening. The Traveler Who Cannot be Moved Muscle contraction is essential in facilitating proper blood flow through the veins, especially in the legs. When a person goes immobile for long hours, especially when sitting, blood may pool in the legs and cause inflammation, stiffness and discomfort. Immobility is a risk factor in the development of blood clots deep in the vein. The World Health Organization conducted a study about the link between travelling and DVT risk and concluded that people are at greater risk (2- to 3-fold) for venous thromboembolism (or the condition that involves DVT and PE) after 4 or more hours of sitting still while in flight. The risk increases with travel duration and with several flights within a short time. The presence of some factors also increases the possibility of developing DVT when travelling. People who developed the condition or pulmonary embolism in the past are at greater risk. Conditions such as pregnancy, cancer, and obesity may also contribute to the problem. Another risk factor is the use of birth control pills and hormone replacement therapy.
Effective Preventive Measures Although there are no established precautionary steps, the general advice for travelers is to maximize mobility by moving around the plane cabin or stopping for toilet breaks when travelling by land. Calf muscles exercises can also help, as they promote proper blood circulation and reduce stiffness, fatigue and discomfort. Passengers may benefit from the exercises that flight attendants share during the flight. Health care practitioners also advise travelers not to put heavy hand-carry luggage on the lap or near the leg or feet area, as it constrains movement. People who have a history of developing DVT should consult doctors before traveling to learn more about safe and effective preventive measures. Prolonged immobility during travel increases the risk for DVT. Travelers must be more aware of this reality to prevent the development of a fatal health condition.
RESOURCES: http://veniti.com http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/deep-veinthrombosis/basics/definition/con-20031922 http://circ.ahajournals.org/content/107/23_suppl_1/I-9.full