A vascular surgeon has raised awareness about the health risks associated with air travel, particularly the danger of blood clots. Dr. Rema Malik emphasizes the need for passengers to take proactive measures to protect their health while flying. She highlights that many travelers are unaware of the physical stresses that flying places on the body, which can lead to serious conditions such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT).
Dr. Malik explains that air travel exposes individuals to a “three-hit combo” that increases the risk of developing blood clots. The National Health Service (NHS) defines DVT as a blood clot that typically forms in the leg veins and can be life-threatening if not addressed promptly.
Understanding the Risks of Air Travel
The risks associated with flying stem from a combination of factors. According to Dr. Malik, when passengers board a plane, they enter an environment that is conducive to clot formation. She identifies three primary factors that contribute to this risk:
1. **Sitting/Stagnation**: Prolonged periods of sitting limit movement, causing blood to pool in the legs. This stagnation can lead to the formation of clots, as the calf muscles, often referred to as the “Second Heart,” are not engaged to help pump blood back to the heart.
2. **Air Sludge Factor**: The air in airplane cabins is often drier than that of a desert, which can lead to dehydration. When the body becomes dehydrated, the blood thickens, increasing the likelihood of clotting.
3. **Cabin Pressure**: Reduced cabin pressure causes veins to expand and the valves within them to become less effective at preventing blood from pooling. This phenomenon can make it easier for clots to form.
Recognizing Symptoms and Taking Action
Dr. Malik outlines the symptoms of DVT for those at risk. Signs can include:
– Throbbing pain in one leg, particularly in the calf or thigh
– Swelling in one leg
– Warm skin around the painful area
– Red or darkened skin, which may be more difficult to detect on darker skin tones
– Hard or sore swollen veins upon touch
If someone experiences these symptoms, immediate medical attention is crucial. DVT can lead to severe complications, including pulmonary embolism, where a clot travels to the lungs.
Fortunately, Dr. Malik offers practical advice to mitigate these risks while flying. She stresses the importance of maintaining circulation during flights:
1. **Wear Compression Socks**: Dr. Malik insists that wearing compression socks with a pressure of 15-20 mmHg is essential. These socks help promote blood flow and reduce swelling. She advises wearing them from the time you leave home.
2. **Stay Hydrated**: Following the “8-Ounce Rule,” passengers should aim to drink at least 8 ounces of water for every hour spent in the air. It is important to note that caffeinated beverages and alcohol do not count, as they can exacerbate dehydration.
3. **Regular Movement**: Every 30 minutes, passengers should perform ankle pumps, mimicking the movement of pressing a gas pedal. This exercise activates the calf muscles, promoting blood circulation and helping to clear stagnant blood.
By following these recommendations, travelers can significantly reduce their risk of developing DVT during flights. Dr. Malik’s insights serve as a timely reminder that health should be a priority, even when the excitement of travel is in the air.
