Annual incidence 1 per 1000
Risk factors include:
Prolonged immobility in a sitting position
Personal or family history of DVT or pulmonary embolism
Surgery, recent pelvic or lower limb injury, or prolonged immobilization
History of malignancy (cancer)
Pregnancy or postpartum (the first 6 weeks after childbirth)
Estrogen therapy (oral contraceptives, hormone replacement therapy, tamoxifen)
Coagulation (blood clotting) disorder predisposing to thrombosis
Over 40 years of age
Congestive heart failure or recent myocardial infarction (heart attack)
Dehydration (due to diarrhea or other conditions)
Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing when possible. Avoid clothing that binds at the knees (such as socks/stockings with strong elastic tops) or at the waist (such as pantyhose).
When flying, wear graded compression stockings that exert 20-30 mmHg at the ankle level (such as support stockings).
When practical and safe, walk around in the aircraft cabin frequently during the trip.
Stand up at your seat and stretch your arms and legs periodically. Many airlines now provide video presentations on stretching exercises during long flights.
Exercise your leg and calf muscles frequently by flexing and extending your feet.
Avoid crossing your legs since this may decrease blood circulation to your legs.
Use a footrest when possible to reduce the pressure on the back of your thighs from the seat. Alternatively, elevate your feet on a briefcase, small bag, or pillow.
When possible, book an exit row seat to allow more space for leg stretches or an aisle seat to allow easier access for walking.
During transit stops disembark and walk around.
Drink plenty of water to prevent dehydration.
Avoid alcohol and coffee, both of which contribute to dehydration.
Avoid sleeping pills during a flight.
Leg pain, ache or disconfort
Leg swelling
Increased warmth in the leg
Leg discoloration (red)
Joint pain
Swelling of the arm
Axillary tenderness
Chest pain
Palpitations
Shortness of breath
Dyspnea
Anticoagulant
1. DuPont HL, Steffen R. Textbook of Travel Medicine and Health. First Edition. BC Decker Inc, Hamilton, London. 1997
2. Jong EC, McMullen R. The Travel and Tropical Medicine Manual .Third Edition. Saunders, Philadelphia, Pensylvania. 2003
3. Mendis S,Yach D, Alwan A. Air Travel and venous thromboembolism.
Bulletin of the World Health Organisation 2002,80 (5)
3. Website: www.travax.com
Nicole Denommé
Ottawa Hospital-General Campus
Fax: (613) 737-8009
e-mail: ndenomme@ottawahospital.on.ca