![]() If parts of the clot break off and travel to the lungs, this can block blood vessels and is called pulmonary embolism (PE) which is a potentially life threatening condition.Īlthough the absolute risk of developing DVT or PE after a long haul flight is very small, the risk is increased if you have pre-existing risk factors. Blood clots most commonly form in the legs. Prolonged periods of immobility can lead to slow blood flow in the veins which increases the risk of developing a blood clot within a deep vein in the body this is called deep vein thrombosis (DVT). The risk is not confined to air travel it increases with the duration of travel and is more common in those with pre-existing risk factors. If you think you may be at risk for deep vein thrombosis, talk with your doctor.Long distance travel is a risk factor in the development of blood clots. NIH scientists continue to research new medicines and better treatment options. Therapies aim to stop the blood clot from getting bigger, prevent the clot from breaking off and moving to your lungs, or reduce your chance of having another blood clot. There are many ways to treat deep vein thrombosis. A physical exam and other tests can help doctors determine whether you’ve got a blood clot. See your doctor immediately if you have any signs or symptoms of deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism (see the Wise Choices box). ![]() Take any medicines your doctor prescribes to prevent clots after some types of surgery.Ī prompt diagnosis and proper treatment can help prevent the complications of blood clots. The more active you are, the better your chance of avoiding a blood clot. Get out of bed and move around as soon as you’re able after having surgery or being ill. Exercise your lower leg muscles if you’re sitting for a long time while traveling. You can take simple steps to lower your chances for a blood clot. But deep vein thrombosis can happen at any age. So are those who smoke or who are older than 60. Women who take hormone therapy pills or birth control pills, are pregnant, or within the first 6 weeks after giving birth are also at higher risk. These include a stroke, paralysis (an inability to move), chronic heart disease, high blood pressure, surgical procedure, or having been recently treated for cancer. Having other diseases or conditions can also raise your chances of a blood clot. Your risk is higher if you’ve recently had surgery or broken a bone, if you’re ill and in bed for a long time, or if you’re traveling for a long time (such as during long car or airplane rides). In these cases, lifestyle can contribute to a blood clot forming-if you don’t move enough, for example. Getting a blood clot is usually the first sign of this condition because it’s hard to notice otherwise. “Usually people who develop deep vein thrombosis have some level of thrombophilia, which means their blood clots more rapidly or easily,” Kindzelski says. Some people are more at risk for deep vein thrombosis than others. This disorder can damage the lungs and reduce blood oxygen levels, which can harm other organs as well. If a clot lodges in an artery in the lungs, it can block blood flow and lead to a sometimes-deadly condition called pulmonary embolism. “But about 30–40% of cases go unnoticed, since they don’t have typical symptoms.” In fact, some people don’t realize they have a deep vein clot until it causes a more serious condition.ĭeep vein clots-especially those in the thigh-can break off and travel through the bloodstream. Andrei Kindzelski, an NIH blood disease expert. “Deep vein thrombosis has classic symptoms-for example swelling, pain, warmth, and redness on the leg,” says Dr. Deep vein blood clots typically occur in the lower leg or thigh. When a clot forms in a vein deep in the body, it’s called deep vein thrombosis. They develop when blood thickens and clumps together. Taking steps to reduce your chances of a blood clot forming in your veins can help you avoid potentially serious problems.īlood clots can arise anywhere in your body. ![]() ![]() Blood clots can happen to anyone, anytime. But if your symptoms stem from a blood clot deep in your leg, it can be dangerous. Lots of things can cause pain and swelling in your leg.
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