Preventing Deep Vein Thrombosis From Travel - Topic Overview
What is deep vein thrombosis (DVT)?
Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clot in a deep vein, usually in a leg. A DVT is dangerous because the clot can break loose, travel through the bloodstream, and block blood flow to the lungs (pulmonary embolism). Without treatment, this can be deadly.
Why does travel raise your risk of DVT?
Sitting still for 4 or more hours slows down the blood flow in your legs. This makes your blood more likely to clot. And for the next few weeks, your blood clot risk stays higher than normal.
How to Prevent Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)
Preventing a deep vein thrombosis, also known as a DVT, is vital. A DVT is a blood clot that forms in the deep veins of the legs most commonly, but can also occur in the veins of the upper extremities. That's because the blood clot, which usually forms in a calf or thigh deep veins, can partially or completely block blood flow back to the heart and cause damage to the one-way valves in the veins. The clot can also break free and travel through your blood to major organs, such as your lungs -- which...
Read the How to Prevent Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) article > >
Even if you are healthy and have a low risk of blood clots, a long flight or road trip raises your risk of DVT.
If you already have a risk of blood clots, prolonged sitting raises your risk even more. Things that can already be raising your risk for DVT include a past DVT or pulmonary embolism, a recent surgery or injury, a blood clotting disorder, and cancer. Things that pose a small risk of DVT include pregnancy and taking hormones for birth control or hormone replacement.
How can you prevent DVT from travel?
During a trip of 4 or more hours:
- Get up and walk around every half hour to an hour. When in a car, stop and walk around every hour or so.
- While you're sitting, raise and lower your toes, keeping your heels on the floor. Then raise and lower your heels, keeping your toes on the floor. Do this every 20 minutes.
- Drink extra fluids. Avoid alcohol and caffeine.
- Wear loose-fitting clothes that aren't tight around your waist or your legs.
If you already have a risk of blood clots, talk to your doctor before taking a long trip. Your doctor may want you to wear compression stockings or take blood-thinning medicine.
When to call a doctor
For a few weeks after a long flight or trip, be alert for signs of a blood clot. A DVT needs treatment right away.
Call 911 or other emergency services if you:
- Suddenly have shortness of breath and/or chest pain. Chest pain from a blood clot that travels to the lungs (pulmonary embolism) often gets worse with deep breathing.
- Faint or lose consciousness.
Call your doctor right away if you have:
- Swelling, warmth, or tenderness in the soft tissues of your leg.
- Pain in your leg that gets worse when you stand or walk. This is especially important if there is also swelling or redness in your leg.
WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise
Preventing Deep Vein Thrombosis From Travel Topics
Today in DVT
Health Solutions From Our Sponsors
©2005-2013 WebMD, LLC. All rights reserved.
WebMD does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. See additional information.