Deep Vein Thrombosis: The Travel Danger You Can Prevent

With the holiday season nearly upon us, many of us are finalizing travel plans – whether that means family reunions, long-awaited vacations, or spontaneous adventures. What most don’t know, however, is that there is a hidden health risk that comes with long-distance travel. Whether you’re flying cross-country (or overseas!) or sitting in the car for hours, long-distance travel can increase your risk of developing a deep vein thrombosis (DVT).

DVTs occur when a blood clot forms in a deep vein, most often in the legs. Some clots may resolve on their own, but others may become life-threatening if they break free and travel to the lungs, causing what we call a pulmonary embolism.

Why Travel Increases Risk

The biggest culprit is long hours of immobility. When you sit still for hours, blood flow in your legs slows down. This sluggish circulation makes it easier for clots to form. Long flights over four hours are particularly notorious, but a long road trip can also pose the same risk.

Certain factors add to the danger: being over the age of 60, having obesity, recent surgery, cancer, pregnancy, or a family history of clotting disorders. Still, even healthy young people aren’t immune!

Warning Signs to Watch For

What makes a DVT tricky is that it doesn’t always cause noticeable symptoms. When it does, some of the common warning signs include:

• Swelling in one leg (rarely both)
• Pain or tenderness in the calf or thigh
• Warmth or redness in the affected area compared to the other leg

Shortness of breath, chest pain, coughing up blood, or feeling lightheaded can signal a pulmonary embolism – an emergency that requires immediate medical attention.

Steps to Reduce Your Risk

Preventing travel-related DVTs is both simple and effective. A few small changes can make a big difference:

• Move often. On flights, get up and walk the aisle every 1-2 hours. On road trips, schedule frequent breaks to stretch your legs!
• Exercise while seated. Flex your ankles, point and lift your toes, or do gentle leg raises to keep your blood flowing.
• Stay hydrated. Drink plenty of water, and go easy on caffeine and alcohol, as they can contribute to dehydration.
• Wear loose clothing. Tight waistbands or pant legs can restrict circulation.
• Consider compression stockings. These socks are specially designed to help improve blood flow in the legs, making them especially useful for travelers that are at higher risk.

When to Talk to Your Doctor

If you have a recent history of surgery, cancer treatment, or a personal or family history of clotting disorders, talk to your doctor before a long trip. In some cases, medication can be prescribed to lower your risk. Prevention is definitely not a one-size-fits-all scenario, and your doctor can help you decide what works best for you.

Bottom Line

Travel should be full of good memories – not medical emergencies. DVTs are serious, but with awareness and a few preventive steps, you can greatly reduce your risk. As we head into the holiday season, remember to stay active, stay hydrated, and arrive safely at your destination.

Dr. Gabriel Hapenciuc is a resident physician who sees patients of all ages and provides obstetrical services at Lone Star Family Health Center, a non-profit 501©3 Federally Qualified Health Center operating facilities in Conroe, Spring, Willis, Grangerland, and Huntsville, and serving as home to a fully integrated Family Medicine Residency Program to increase the number of Family Medicine physicians for Texas and our community.