Airline travel and the potentially harmful increase in foot size
Preventing Swollen Legs and Blood Clots During Long Flights
Traveling long distances by air can take a toll on your body, particularly your legs. One common issue that arises during long-haul flights is the swelling of feet, ankles, or lower legs, often due to increased venous pressure. Thankfully, there are effective methods to prevent this and reduce the risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT).
Maintain Movement and Good Posture
Getting up and walking around the cabin as often as possible is crucial. In-seat exercises, such as ankle circles and foot pumps, can also help maintain circulation. Avoid constrictive sitting positions like crossing your legs or sitting with tightly bent knees and hips for long periods.
Compression Stockings and Hydration
Wearing below-knee graduated compression stockings can significantly improve blood flow and reduce clot risk. If regular compression socks are not feasible, alternatives like compression wraps or leg sleeves may be used with care. Staying well-hydrated is also important, so drink plenty of fluids (water), but avoid alcohol, tea, and coffee, which can contribute to dehydration and thicker blood.
Avoid Sedatives
Sleeping pills should be avoided if possible, as they reduce natural movement which helps blood circulate.
Elevation and Medical Advice for High-Risk Travelers
When resting, elevating legs above heart level supports venous return and reduces swelling. For individuals at higher risk, such as those with recent surgery, a history of clots, varicose veins, obesity, or contraceptive use, it's essential to consult a doctor. Preventive measures could include medication and tailored recommendations.
In conclusion, a combination of movement, compression, hydration, correct posture, and medical guidance forms the medically recommended approach to preventing blood clots and swollen legs during long flights.
Why Long Flights Cause These Health Issues
According to Dr. Vera Larina, a medical doctor, long flights can cause health issues due to reduced efficiency of the muscle-venous pump, forced vertical position, venous stasis, vein dilation, and increased venous pressure. Additionally, long flights can disrupt the body's water and electrolyte balance, causing the permeability of microvessels (capillaries) to increase, allowing fluid and dissolved substances to move into the interstitial (tissue) space.
This article was reported by Liter.kz.
Adopting a lifestyle that includes regular fitness-and-exercise and health-and-wellness routines could improve the body's ability to combat the effects of long-haul flights.Engaging in science-based methods during travel, such as the wearing of compression stockings and the practice of in-seat exercises, can help minimize the risk of swollen legs and blood clots.Maintaining a lifestyle with focus on travel, science, fitness-and-exercise, health-and-wellness, and lifestyle choices can lead to better overall physical health during long flights.
