HHS HealthBeat (June 4, 2012)

Deep vein travelers

From the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, I’m Ira Dreyfuss with HHS HealthBeat.

It’s possible, but rare, for some people who have to sit for long periods, like on a long airplane flight, to get deep vein thrombosis. That’s when a blood clot forms in an arm or leg. If part of the clot breaks off and travels to the lungs, it can be fatal.

At the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Dr. Phyllis Kozarsky says people who have to sit for long periods can reduce the risk of deep vein thrombosis by doing a few simple things:

“Get up occasionally, and walk around. Exercise your calf muscles, and stretch your legs while you’re sitting. And select an aisle seat, when possible.”

She says travelers with higher risk of deep vein thrombosis can talk with their doctor about other steps, such as wearing special stockings.

Learn more at healthfinder.gov.

HHS HealthBeat is a production of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. I’m Ira Dreyfuss.

Last revised: June 4, 2012