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Preventing Deep Vein Thrombosis From Travel

Table of Contents


Overview

What is a deep vein thrombosis (DVT)?

A deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a blood clot (thrombus) in a deep vein, usually in the legs. A DVT can be dangerous because it can break loose and travel through the bloodstream to the lungs. There it can block blood flow in the lungs (pulmonary embolism). This can be life-threatening.

How can you help prevent DVT from travel?

Even if you are healthy and have a low risk of blood clots, a long flight or road trip raises your risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Sitting still for 4 or more hours slows down the blood flow in your legs. This makes your blood more likely to clot. And for the next few weeks, your blood clot risk stays higher than normal.

Here are some tips to prevent DVT during a long trip.

If you already have a risk of blood clots, talk to your doctor before taking a long trip. Your doctor may want you to wear compression stockings or take blood-thinning medicine.

When to call a doctor

Call 911 or other emergency services if you have pulmonary embolism symptoms, including:

Call your doctor now if you have DVT symptoms, including:


Credits for Preventing Deep Vein Thrombosis From Travel

Current as of: August 6, 2023

Author: Healthwise Staff (https://www.healthwise.org/specialpages/legal/abouthw/en)
Clinical Review Board (https://www.healthwise.org/specialpages/legal/abouthw/en)
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.


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