Travelling and Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)

Do you have big plans to travel this summer? Travelling can be a lot of fun, but it can also be dangerous if you don’t take the necessary precautions. Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) is a serious condition that can occur while travelling. We will discuss the risk factors for DVT and how to prevent it from happening. We’ll also cover the symptoms of DVT and what to do if you think you might have it. So, read whether you’re planning a trip overseas or just taking a road trip down the coast.

Symptoms of Deep Vein Thrombosis

Swelling in the Legs
If you notice your legs swelling more than usual, it could be a sign of DVT. A build-up of fluid causes swelling in the leg, which can be a DVT symptom. Swelling is one of the most common symptoms of DVT. See a doctor immediately if you experience sudden or severe swelling in your legs.

Pain or Tenderness in the Legs
If you notice that your legs are painful or tender to the touch, it could be a sign of DVT. The inflammation of the blood vessels causes pain. It’s important to see a doctor if you experience any sudden or severe leg pain.

Redness or Discoloration of the Skin
If you notice that your legs are redder or more discoloured than usual, it could be a sign of DVT. The inflammation of the blood vessels causes redness.

Risk Factors of Deep Vein Thrombosis

Prolonged sitting or standing
If you spend a lot of time sitting or standing, it can increase your risk of DVT. That’s because when you’re not moving around, the blood in your legs can start to pool and form clots. So, if you’re sitting or standing for long periods, take breaks and move around every so often.

Obesity
If you are obese, you have a higher risk of Deep Vein Thrombosis. That’s because obesity can cause the blood vessels to become inflamed and damaged. If you are obese, make sure to discuss with your doctor how you can decrease your risk of DVT.

Age
If you’re over 60, you have a higher risk of DVT. That’s because our blood vessels become less elastic and more likely to become damaged as we age.

Preventing Deep Vein Thrombosis while Travelling

Get Up and Move Around Every Few Hours
When you’re travelling, get up and move around every few hours. This will help keep the blood flowing in your legs and prevent it from pooling and forming clots. If you’re on a long flight, try to walk up and down the aisle every hour or so. If you’re sitting for a long time, take breaks and stretch your legs often. And if you’re driving, take frequent breaks to get out of the car and stretch your legs.

Drink Plenty of Fluids
When you’re travelling, it’s important to drink plenty of fluids. This will help keep your blood thin and prevent it from clotting. Make sure to drink lots of water and avoid drinks that contain caffeine or alcohol.

Wear Loose-Fitting Clothes
When you’re travelling, make sure to wear loose-fitting clothes. This will help prevent the blood vessels from becoming constricted and increase the blood flow in your legs.

Elevate Your Legs
If you’re sitting or standing for long periods, elevate your legs. This will help prevent blood pooling in your legs and reduce your risk of Deep Vein Thrombosis. You can elevate your legs by putting them on a stool or lying down and propping them on pillows.

Compression Wear
If your doctor notices that you are at high risk of developing Deep Vein Thrombosis, they may prescribe compression stockings. Compression stockings are special types of socks that help to increase the blood flow in your legs. They work by applying gentle pressure to your legs and helping to prevent the blood from pooling. If you’re going to be travelling, pack a pair of compression stockings in your suitcase.

Types of Compression Wear

Over-The-Counter (OTC) Compression Stockings
There are a variety of different OTC compression stockings that you can buy. They come in different sizes, lengths, and levels of Compression. You can usually find them at your local pharmacy or online.

Some people find that OTC compression stockings are too tight and uncomfortable. If this is the case, you may want to try other types of compression wear. This compression wear costs around $15-$60 per pair.

Prescription Compression Stockings
If OTC compression stockings are ineffective, your doctor may prescribe you a pair of prescription compression stockings. Prescription compression stockings are made to fit your legs and are usually more comfortable than OTC stockings. It is also important to note that this type of compression wear is usually not covered by insurance, so you may have to pay for them out of pocket.

Compression Socks
Compression socks are a type of compression stocking you can wear on your feet. They are usually made of lightweight material and have a low level of Compression. This makes them ideal for people who are new to wearing compression stockings. They cost anything between $15-$50 per pair.

Wearing compression stockings can be a bit tricky. If you’re not used to wearing them, it may take some time to get the hang of it. Here are some tips for putting on and taking off compression stockings:

To put on:

• Sit in a chair with your legs extended in front of you
• Place the stocking over your foot and pull it up over your calf
• Use your fingers to smooth out any wrinkles
• Repeat with the other leg

To take off:

• Sit in a chair with your legs extended in front of you.
• Grasp the top of the stocking and slowly roll it down your leg.
• Repeat with the other leg.

How does Compression Wear Prevent DVT?

Increasing Blood Flow in Your Legs
Wearing compression stockings helps to increase blood flow in your legs. This is because the Compression applies pressure to your veins and prevents blood pooling. Increasing blood flow in your legs helps to reduce your risk of Deep Vein Thrombosis.

Preventing Blood Clots
Wearing compression stockings also helps to prevent blood clots. This is because the Compression applies pressure to your veins and prevents the blood from clotting. Blood clots can lead to DVT, so preventing them; can reduce your risk of developing DVT.

Reducing Swelling
Wearing compression stockings can also help to reduce swelling in your legs. This is because the Compression applies pressure to your veins and prevents blood pooling. Blood pooling can lead to swelling, so preventing it. You can reduce the risk of developing DVT.

Reducing Inflammation
Wearing compression stockings can also help to reduce inflammation in your legs. This is because the Compression applies pressure to your veins and prevents blood pooling. Pooling blood can lead to inflammation; preventing it can reduce the risk of developing DVT.

How Long Should You Wear Compression Stockings To Prevent DVT?

You should wear compression stockings for as long as possible while travelling. This includes during the flight, during transit, and at your destination. Wearing them for extended periods will help to increase blood flow in your legs and reduce your risk of DVT.

If you have medical conditions that make wearing compression stockings difficult, talking to your doctor before you travel is very important. They may be able to prescribe you a different type of compression wear that will be more comfortable for you.

Conclusion

Travelling and deep thrombosis (DVT) are dangerous combinations. By ensuring you are moving around frequently, wearing compression stockings, taking breaks, and taking enough fluids, you can help to prevent DVT. If you have any medical issues that make wearing compression stockings uncomfortable, please consult with your physician before travelling. Taking these precautions will help to keep you safe and healthy while you’re on the go.