3 Must-Do Things Before a Flight If You’re Worried About Blood Clots

Traveling by air is the fastest way to see the country and the world, but it’s not usually the most comfortable way to travel. Nevertheless, because you’ll be at your destination so much sooner than you would by car, bus or train, you probably find it worthwhile. There is, however, a risk for those who suffer from vein disease in particular: sitting still in the cramped cabin under less air pressure could lead to you developing a blood clot, especially if you’re on a lengthy international flight.

The idea of a clot – which can not only be painful, but can also sometimes in extreme cases prove fatal – is enough to stop many a risk-averse would-be traveler. But if you love to be on the go or you have a job that takes you places around the globe, traveling by other methods simply isn’t always an option. Unless a doctor tells you otherwise, don’t stop traveling and living your life because of the fear of developing clots. If you do everything you can to manage your vein disease beforehand, your travel plans shouldn’t be affected. Still, if you even just suspect you have an issue with your veins, be proactive about preventing clots while you travel.

See a Specialist

The most important thing to do before you get on a plane is to meet with a doctor who specializes in vein diseases. This is especially important if you’ve had clots before, but you should go even if no one’s ever diagnosed you with vein diseases as of yet. The doctor will examine you and determine whether or not you do suffer from a vein-related issue. She’ll then put together a treatment plan for you to better manage the discomfort and risk associated with vein diseases. This may include medication, exercise, and in a minority of cases, surgery. Discuss the prospect of flying with this specialist and determine whether or not the benefits of flying instead of traveling by ground or boat outweighs the risk of a clot for you.

Wear Flight Socks

The best way to prevent clots is to keep the blood flowing in your legs. Flight socks made especially to improve circulation prevent blood from pooling in your veins by putting gentle, constant pressure on your calves. Compression socks are not only beneficial for diabetics, but for anyone concerned with the possibility of developing a clot while on a flight.

Move Before, After and Mid-Flight

Sitting still for hours at a time is the biggest culprit when it comes to developing a sudden clot. Keep your blood flowing by moving as much as possible. Walk around the airport before your flight takes off, and get up to stretch your legs and walk up and down the aisle at least once every half hour whenever the seatbelt sign is turned off. Make sure not to disturb your fellow passengers as you do. If you can’t get up for a while due to turbulence or a flight attendant asking you to remain seated, stretch your legs out as much as you can in your seat and rotate your ankles. Before you jump into a taxi and sit for another long period after you land, go for another walk around the airport.

Try not to worry about "what-if" scenarios when you travel. Travel’s stressful enough without worrying about things that haven’t happened yet. If your doctor gives you the all-clear to fly and you do what you can to prevent clots, relax and enjoy the flight.

About the Author: Rita Hermann is a frequent traveler and blogger on traveling-related health issues. She stresses that you treat your vein disease before you go on any flights to have a comfortable, safe trip.

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