Blood clots and travel

Q For years, my husband and I have wanted to take a trip to Hawaii. but we a For years, my husband and I have wanted to take a trip to Hawaii, have some concerns because of the length of the flight. I've heard that some people who take extended flights have problems with blood clots that can create some serious conditions. Now that we've finally made plans to go to Hawaii, what can we do to prevent the problem of blood clots during our flight?

M.W., New York City

A The problem you have heard people talking about is deep venous thrombosis, a condition where a blood clot develops in a vein. When some people sit for extended periods of time, as can be the case during a flight, clots can occur in the lower leg and the thigh. Doctors say the clot can interfere with circulation, and it may break off and travel through the bloodstream.

If that happens, the clot can lodge in the lungs (or another organ), creating a pulmonary embolism, a potentially fatal condition that, medical experts say, can cause death within a short period of time.

In addition to immobilization, the condition risk factors include recent surgery, fractures, childbirth within six months and the use of such medications as estrogen and birth control pills. Symptoms usually present themselves in only one leg and can include tenderness, swelling, increased warmth and changes in skin color, especially redness.

To prevent blood clots during your travel, doctors have several recommendations: Move around the airplane cabin about once every hour; don't sit with your legs crossed; exercise while you sit by flexing or rotating your ankles; wear support stockings, which help to promote circulation and fluid movement; drink plenty of fluids before and during the trip; and avoid alcohol, which contributes to fluid loss.

Talk to your doctor, who, based on your risk factors, may recommend specific medication to be taken two to four hours before departure.

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