Talk to your doctor about wearing compression stockings or taking medicine before departure if you have additional risk factors for blood clots. Taking aspirin to prevent blood clots when traveling is not recommended.
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Talk to your doctor about wearing compression stockings or taking medicine before departure if you have additional risk factors for blood clots. Taking aspirin to prevent blood clots when traveling is not recommended. If you take aspirin for other reasons, check with your doctor.
There has been considerable attention focused recently on the risk of deep venous thrombosis (DVT) associated with air travel. Despite the lack of evidence among air travelers, a single dose of aspirin has been widely recommended as a means of preventing such thrombosis.
If you are at risk, talk with your doctor to learn more about how to prevent blood clots. For example, some people may benefit by wearing graduated compression stockings. If you are on blood thinners, also known as anticoagulants, be sure to follow your doctor's recommendations on medication use.
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.
Increasing leg muscle activity during long periods of sitting improves blood flow in the legs. This may include walk- ing around the cabin or exercising your lower legs and ankles while seated. Drinking adequate fluids, and avoiding alcohol and caffeine, may also help by preventing dehydration.
It's suggested that high-risk travelers wear properly fitted, below-knee compression stockings while in flight. Preventive blood thinners or aspirin are not recommended for long-distance travelers.
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.