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How do you prevent blood clots in your legs on a long flight?

Prevent Blood Clots During Travel
  1. Stand up or walk occasionally. ...
  2. Exercise your calf muscles and stretch your legs while you're sitting. ...
  3. Talk to your doctor about wearing compression stockings or taking medicine before departure if you have additional risk factors for blood clots.




To prevent Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) in 2026, the "gold standard" advice is a combination of movement, hydration, and compression. You should perform "ankle pumps" (flexing your feet up and down) and "knee-to-chest" stretches every hour from your seat. If the "fasten seatbelt" sign is off, a five-minute walk to the galley and back is highly recommended. Wearing graduated compression socks (15–20 mmHg) is clinically proven to reduce the risk of blood pooling. Staying hydrated by drinking at least 8 oz of water per hour is vital, as dehydration thickens the blood; conversely, you should limit alcohol and caffeine, which contribute to dehydration. For 2026 travelers at high risk (e.g., recent surgery or smokers), doctors may prescribe a low-dose anticoagulant (like baby aspirin or a specific blood thinner) to be taken just before the flight.

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Prevent Blood Clots During Travel
  1. Stand up or walk occasionally. ...
  2. Exercise your calf muscles and stretch your legs while you're sitting. ...
  3. Talk to your doctor about wearing compression stockings or taking medicine before departure if you have additional risk factors for blood clots.


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Compression socks may help. Whether you find yourself on a flight or a long car ride to visit family, compression garments for the legs can help prevent swelling, potential blood clots, and the general discomfort that comes from extended travel.

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After the flight If you have travelled by air you should be alert for the symptoms of DVT for up to one month after flying, and should seek medical help if any symptoms such as a swollen or painful leg, especially the calf, and/or breathing difficulties occur.

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DVT or PE may manifest during or shortly after the flight, but often not for several weeks. Prevention includes choosing aisle seating, maintaining hydration, walking frequently, wearing loose clothing, exercising the lower extremities, using a foot rest, and avoiding alcohol and sleeping pills.

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Tips for improving blood circulation on a plane
  1. Wear compression socks. Compression socks work wonders on the plane! ...
  2. Keep hydrated. Staying hydrated is essential for keeping your blood circulation in top shape, especially during a flight. ...
  3. Wear loose clothing. ...
  4. Choose a seat with additional legroom. ...
  5. Improve your fitness.


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Taking aspirin to prevent blood clots when traveling is not recommended. If you take aspirin for other reasons, check with your doctor.

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