Deep vein thrombosis

There has been much publicity about the problems caused by long haul flights, especially to Australia and New Zealand. The major complication is one of Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT), also known as Economy Class Syndrome.

	Symptoms
	These include ankle swelling, but please remember that many people get swollen ankles during flights and this is normal. However, an indication that it might be DVT is when one ankle swells much more than the other. Localised redness and some pain may occur. More serious symptoms are a cough, breathlessness, a rapid heartbeat, and palpitations.
	Causes
	A blood clot forms in the major veins on our legs. This clot can then move to the heart and lungs, causing the heart to stop.
	Risk factors
	The risk of Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) is increased if you:- have a vein disorder such as varicosis or phlebitis are over 40 years of age are pregnant have recently had major surgery smoke are overweight take the contraceptive pill
	Prevention
	do not wear tight clothing, dress with loose belts and open neck shirts Drink plenty of fluid and restrict the amount of alcohol you drink. If you want to drink alcohol, drink the same amount and more of water or fruit juices Wear elastic support stockings if possible, especially if you have varicose veins Wriggle your legs around regularly when you are seated Get up and walk around the plane regularly, do a few exercises to promote your circulation Try and get as fit as possible before you fly - stop smoking!
	Recommended web sites
	DVT A leaflet from Patient UK DVT More information from the BBC health website