Share

Prevent blood clots while flying

accreditation

Deep-vein thrombosis (DVT) is a dangerous condition in which a blood clot develops in a deep vein, usually in the lower leg. Make sure this doesn't happen to you.

Take action

According to the World Health Organisation, the following factors increase your risk of DVT:

being seated and immobile for more than four hours while travelling by plane, train, bus or automobile.

Read: DVT a danger when flying 

Taking multiple flights over a short period of time (the risk remains elevated for about four weeks after a flight).

Obesity. being very tall or very short (taller than 1,9m or shorter than 1,6m).

Read: Keep those travel legs moving

Use of oral contraceptives. and inherited blood disorders leading to increased clotting tendency.

Reduce your risk by exercising your calf muscles with up-and-down movements of the feet and wearing loose-fitting clothing while travelling. 

Read more: 

Danger lurking in your veins 

Leg pain signals deadly blood clots  

Cabin air linked to DVT 

We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()
Editorial feedback and complaints

Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on News24.

LEARN MORE