Deep venous thrombosis
A deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clot in a deep vein, usually in the legs. It can occur after sitting still for a prolonged time during travel, such as during a flight or a car, bus or train ride lasting more than 4 hours. The risk increases with the duration of travel and when with additional risk factors:
- previous thrombosis
- recent surgery
- active cancer
- people with reduced mobility
- pregnancy
- women in the first 6 weeks after childbirth
- estrogen use (e.g. contraceptive pill or hormone replacement tablets during menopause)
- obesity (BMI > 30 kg/m2)
- certain hereditary blood coagulation diseases (e.g. factor V Leiden)
- persons older than 60 years of age
- large varicose veins in the legs
- history of cardiovascular disease
Symptoms of a DVT include swelling, redness and pain in the affected limb, usually on one side. Sometimes the blood clot can travel to the lungs (pulmonary embolism). Symptoms of a pulmonary embolism include shortness of breath or chest pain.
Prevention
General
- get up and walk around regularly (every 1-2 hours).
- a chair by the aisle can make this easier
- do exercises that involve moving the knees and ankles
- avoid taking alcohol or sleeping medication
- drink plenty of water
- wear loose, comfortable clothes
compression stockings
If you travel for more than 4 hours and have a risk factor:
- consider wearing support stockings up to the knee.
Anticoagulation medication
If you travel for more than 4 hours and have ever had a blood clot, or have multiple risk factors:
- discuss with your doctor whether the preventive use of an anticoagulant medication is recommended.
Acetylsalicylic acid
Taking acetylsalicylic acid (Aspirin®) preventively has no proven preventive effect.
Timely recognition of symptoms
In case of symptoms, consult a doctor as soon as possible.