Thrombosis and air travel
Traveling long distances for an extended period of time can increase the risk of blood clots, especially in the lower extremities. Air travel is a risk factor for venous thrombosis, and numerous studies support this hypothesis. Despite numerous attempts to document the risk of venous thromboembolism on long journeys due to the lack of large-scale studies, airlines and some scientists believe that prevention of thrombosis during flight is unwarranted.
Venous thrombosis is a serious life-threatening condition. Blood clots, usually formed in one of the lower extremities, can break off and reach the lungs, blocking the pulmonary artery. Pulmonary embolism, which describes a blockage in one of the pulmonary arteries, causes a decrease in the level of oxygen in the body's blood, permanent destruction of lung tissue, or weakening of the heart. The symptoms of a venous embolism vary depending on the extent of the damage to the lungs, the size of the clots, or the presence of lung or heart disease.
What is the relationship between thrombosis and air travel?
Prolonged sitting in the seats of the aircraft, in cramped conditions, leads to a decrease in blood flow to the lower extremities, which increases the risk of developing thrombosis. Although there are studies showing a 2-10% increase in the prevalence of thrombosis in air travelers, further research is needed to conclude that there is an exact link between thrombosis and air travel. Certain factors can increase the risk of blood clots, most of those who experience this problem have one or more risk factors. Seeing a doctor is recommended before a long flight for people who have one of the following Thrombosis risk factors:
advanced age (in people over 50 years of age, venous thrombosis develops much more often);
- cardiovascular diseases, especially heart failure;
- obesity (body mass index over 30 kg/m2);
- cancer;
- operations;
- pregnancy and postpartum period;
- genetic disorders of blood coagulation;
- personal or family history of blood clots;
- limited mobility;
- smoking;
- varicose veins in the legs;
- use of estrogen-containing contraceptives;
- the use of hormones to reduce the effects of menopause;
- the use of anticancer drugs;
- the catheter is inserted into the vein of the lower extremities.
How to prevent thrombosis in flight?
- walk down the aisle when allowed;
- do not cross your legs;
- avoid wearing tight clothing that can restrict blood flow;
- stay hydrated before and during the flight;
- do not drink alcohol before and during the trip;
In addition to general recommendations for preventing blood clots, people with risk factors, especially those with a history of thrombosis, may take other precautions.
Wearing compression stockings, using a pneumatic foot or leg compression device, buying an exit access row pass or wall seat to increase legroom while avoiding travel for less than four weeks after thrombosis treatment are just some of these. additional measures.