Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)

There has been a lot of coverage recently about the threat of Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) to travellers. DVT is the formation of a blood clot of in one of the deep veins in the body, usually in the leg, and it can lead to fatal complications. It occurs most often in people who have not been able to exercise normally.

A French study has shown that journeys more than five hours long by car, plane or train increase the risk of DVT fourfold. There is particular risk with air travel because of the combination of inactivity and dehydration, which makes the blood more sticky. Below are some tips to help keep DVT at bay.

Try to bend and straighten your legs, feet and toes, while seated, every half-hour or so during the flight.

Pressing the balls of your feet down hard against the floor or foot-rest will also help increase the blood flow in your legs and reduce clotting.

Buy an Aero gym. No we're not asking you to take weights on board! It's a great gizmo that you blow up and then push down with one foot and then the other. It helps with your circulation and keeps down swollen ankles.

Take occasional short walks around the plane to help your circulation and to stretch your legs. When possible take advantage of refuelling stopovers where it may be possible to get off the plane and walk about.

Drink plenty of water and be sensible about alcohol. The more alcohol you drink you more dehydrated you become.

Avoid taking sleeping pills

Buy a special pair of compression stockings and wear them for the duration of your flight.

If you are really worried about the possibility of DVT, consult your doctor before you go on holiday.