Reducing the risk of a Deep Vein Thrombosis

Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) occurs in the deep veins of your lower leg. Your blood flow slows down and clotting may occur. This can lead to a painful swelling which makes movement uncomfortable. Worse, a clot may break off and travel through your blood system to your heart or lungs where it can do major damage.

Remember that DVT can affect not only flyers but also passengers in any cramped space - coaches and cars as well as boats and trains.

We advise:

• Don’t wear tight-fitting clothing which can restrict your circulation.
• Don’t sit still for a long time - help the blood flow in your legs by moving around, stretching, doing gentle knee bends. It’s a lot better to suffer the embarrassment of asking someone to let you out of your seat than to be struck down by a thrombosis.
• Don’t sit with your legs crossed (it’s bad for your back too!).
• Exercise in your seat too - for instance, straighten your legs by pushing your heels away from your body and bending your toes back.
• Avoid taking sleeping tablets if you can.
• Keep drinking water so your body stays hydrated which helps to sustain your blood flow - avoid drinking too much alcohol or coffee which will increase water loss from your body.
• You are particularly at risk if you are overweight, unusually tall, suffer from varicose veins or have a history of vascular problems - and additionally for women, if you are on the pill or pregnant. Take the precautions mentioned above and wear compression stockings (available from Doctorcall).

Some people have a genetic pre-disposition to DVT which can be checked by having a special blood test. If you are worried, ask us for one.