Summer travel can be stressful enough without worrying about sudden health scares. Unfortunately, that long car ride or flight can raise your risk of blood clots, ruining your vacation, or worse…
The Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC) estimates that as many as 900,000 Americans are affected by blood clots each year, and upwards of 100,000 people die as a result. Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) – the most common type of blood clot – is a risk factor when traveling and can lead to a life-threatening complication known as a pulmonary embolism.
So, if you’re among the millions who plan to travel this Summer – whether by car, flight or any other mode of transportation – it’s a good time to learn about DVT, your risks, and tips for prevention.
What is Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)?
Blood clots occur when blood thickens and clumps together. A DVT is a blood clot that forms in a deep vein usually in the pelvis, thigh, or lower leg. Many times the blood clot can dissolve on its own; however, a serious health problem can occur when a part of the blood clot breaks off and travels to the lungs, where it can cause a pulmonary embolism (PE), a potentially fatal condition.
DVT and Traveling:
Immobility is considered the major factor behind DVT. Blood clots can form during travel because sitting still in a confined space for long periods slows blood flow in the veins of your legs. The longer you are immobile, the greater your risk of developing a blood clot.
DVT Risks:
According to the CDC, anyone traveling four hours or more is at an increased risk of blood clots. Most people who do develop a DVT during travel have additional risk factors, such as:
• Older age (increased risk after age 40)
• Obesity
• Recent injury or surgery
• Use of hormone replacement therapy
• Use of birth control containing estrogen
• Currently pregnant or postpartum
• Previous or family history of blood clots
• Certain chronic medical illnesses, like heart disease or cancer
• Varicose veins
The combination of long-distance travel with these risks may increase your chances of developing a blood clot. The more risks you have, the greater your chances.
DVT Prevention:
No matter your mode of transportation, protect yourself and reduce your risk of blood clots while traveling.
• To increase blood flow, move your legs frequently on long trips. Even while sitting, you can exercise leg muscles by tightening and releasing and flexing toes toward and away.
• For vehicle traveling, allow for rest stops every 2-3 hours, when you can better stretch your legs. Two handfuls of jumping jacks or a couple jogs around the car will help to improve the flow of blood in your legs.
• When flying or riding on a train or bus, choose an aisle seat so you’re more easily able to get up and move.
• If you are at risk of blood clots, talk with your doctor before traveling to learn more about your individual risks and prevention strategies.
• Know the signs and symptoms of blood clots.
DVT Symptoms:
Symptoms of a blood clot are not always noticeable. If you do have any of these symptoms during or soon after a long trip, seek immediate medical attention.
• Swelling in leg(s)
• Leg pain or tenderness that is not attributable to something else
• Skin on extremities that’s warm to the touch
• Redness of the skin on extremities
Visit https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/dvt/index.html to learn more about deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism.
Bon voyage!
Vascular & Vein Center at Gulfcoast Surgeons
The Vascular and Vein Center at Gulfcoast Surgeons is one of the first and most respected vein clinics in Southwest Florida. Their surgeons, Dr. Abraham Sadighi, Dr. Michael Novotney, and Dr. Johan Escribano, have performed thousands of vascular and vein surgeries over the past 28 years.
They focus on diseases of the vascular system that can range from harmless but unattractive spider veins to dangerous conditions such as peripheral artery disease. Their caring and dedicated team will help you identify problems and offer the best treatment options for you.
The Vascular and Vein Center at Gulfcoast Surgeons offer a fully equipped vascular lab and state-of-the-art Angio suite to provide a higher level of service and care for their patients. You’ll find comfort in knowing that they have a long-standing reputation for positive surgical outcomes that allow you to get back to healthy living.
Call the Vascular & Vein Center at Gulfcoast Surgeons today at (239) 344-7061 to make an appointment with a vascular surgeon who specializes in arteries and veins.
Vascular & Vein Center at Gulfcoast Surgeons
877-LEG-PAIN
gulfcoastsurgeons.com
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