DVT's usually occur in the lower leg between the ankle and
the knee areas. DVT's are serious and can be fatal. Once a
blood clot occurs, it can travel through the veins and get
lodged in the lungs or heart resulting in death. Since
DVT can develop very rapidly, symptoms, if any may be difficult
to detect. In fact, an estimated 50% of reported DVT incidents
went undetected. However, seek medical advice if during
or after a flight you experience:
· Pain and warmth in the lower legs
· Prickly sensation in the legs
· Warmness or swelling of the feet or legs
· Shortness of breath
· Noticeable pain in the lower legs that worsens
when walking or standing
IN FLIGHT RISK
What's the connection between travel and blood clots? Keeping
the legs in a cramped position and inactive for long periods
of time restricts the blood flow in the legs and increases
the risk of a blood clot.
Some doctors believe that
DVT is "more common today as a result of two factors,
the increase in the number of frequent flyers and airline
deregulation". As a result of deregulation, the distance
between one airline seat to the one in front of it is no
longer regulated. Many airlines moved seats closer together
in order to fit more passengers on the planes thereby reducing
the leg room between seats from 40 inches to 28.
Tighter seating arrangements
plus existing medical conditions can equal danger.
· History of blood clots
· Cancer
· Prolonged bed rest following orthopedic surgery
· Estrogen therapy
· Obese or very tall individuals
· Birth control pills
· Recent treatment involving general anesthesia
· Cigarette smoker
· Previous thrombotic episode
· Congestive heart failure
· Pregnancy
· Dehydration
If you have any of the above conditions it is wise to seek
medical advice before traveling. |
