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Travel / DVT
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Why travel legwear?Over recent times, there has been an increase in reports of Venous Thrombosis (blood clots) in the veins of the legs, associated with prolonged periods of immobility such as may be experienced during long distance travel. These reports highlight various preventative measures, which may be taken to reduce potential risks. Such measures include the wearing of Graduated Compression Legwear of appropriate compression strength. Although women may use pantyhose, it is generally agreed that correctly sized knee length legwear for both men and women is usually adequate for this purpose. What is venous thrombosis?Venous thrombosis mainly occurs in the veins of the lower legs. It refers to the formation of blood clots in the veins, which can occur in either the superficial veins immediately under the skin (superficial vein thrombosis, or SVT), or in the more major deep veins within the muscles of the leg (deep vein thrombosis, or DVT). Such clots may, over a period of months, be dissolved by the body's natural processes. However, it is also possible for the clot to "break off" and travel through the blood stream, lodging in the heart or lungs. This can lead to serious health problems or possible death. Does long distance travel increase the risk of clotting?With normal body movement, such as walking, swimming etc., the contractions of the calf muscle act like a "pump" in pushing the blood up the veins in the leg through a series of non-return valves. Long periods of immobility seated in cramped conditions, regardless of the mode of travel, can lead to blood 'pooling'. This ‘pooling’ is a tendency for blood - particularly in the lower leg - to accumulate, which in extreme cases, can lead to the formation of blood clots. Are some travelers at more risk than others?Venous Thrombosis can affect anyone. However, there are some people more at risk than others. People in the following categories should consult their physician before undertaking long distance travel, to discuss the potential risks, and specific preventative measures which may be appropriate.
Does long distance air travel present greater risk?This matter is the subject of ongoing study. Although usually well tolerated by healthy passengers, factors specific to long distance airline travel which have been suggested as presenting a higher risk level are:
What precautions can I take?Wear graduated compression stockingsThese garments have stronger pressure at the ankle, reducing up the leg. They exert pressure on the superficial and deep veins of the leg, speeding up the flow of blood from the legs, helping to prevent the blood from clotting.These garments can also eliminate or reduce swelling of the feet and ankles, a discomfort experienced by many people during long distance travel. For otherwise healthy people, compression legwear of at least 20mmHg pressure at the ankle is necessary. For those in ‘at risk’ categories, the appropriate compression should be discussed with your physician. Keep mobileTo improve blood circulation, and reduce the risk of blood clotting, walk around when possible, and/or exercise the legs while seated. For example, flex and extend the ankle joint a number of times every 20-30 minutes.Maintain hydrationTo combat dehydration when flying, limit the intake of tea, coffee and alcohol. These act as diuretics and cause further dehydration. Instead, drink plenty of water or juices.Do I need to be fitted for graduated compression stockings?Determining the correct size requires basic measurements of foot size, ankle and calf. Most people can be quite easily fitted with an ‘off-the-shelf’size correct for them, and such products are usually available through specialist surgical suppliers, or pharmacies with appropriately trained staff who can assist in determining your size. In the unlikely event that your measurements do not conform to any particular size, your supplier may be able to make some other recommendation. |
Travel / DVT
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