Flying and DVT

[Shotokan-kez]

I don't know if this is in the right place, it's nothing to do with ma but it's health so i thought i would put it here.

In 2004 i had a DVT in my left leg. I got it through pregnancy and i was very ill, i was given warfarin over six months and the clot dispersed. I was told by my doc that the chances of getting another is if i got pregnant again...which just isnt an option, i have enough with two The thing is now i know you can have DVT through flying and i'm scared of getting on a plane in case i get another one. I once had a holiday to spain booked and paid for, my mum was having the kids and i was going with friends. Well i chickened out, and lost all my money.

Does anyone know what the odds are of getting a DVT through flying and what can you do to prevent it? Cheers guys.

Kez x

[bushido_man96]

I'm not sure what DVT is Kez, could you explain?

[Sohan]

DVT=Deep Vein Thrombosis.

http://hcd2.bupa.co.uk/fact_sheets/mosby_factsheets/Deep_Vein_Thrombosis.html

With respect,

Sohan

[Shotokan-kez]

Thanks for the link Sohan, makes me feel a bit better.

[Sohan]

My pleasure.

With respect,

Sohan

[ninjanurse]

The chances of getting a DVT increase with ANY extended sedentary period, whether lying, riding in the car, or being a couch potato! You can minimize the risk by doing calf and leg exercises while seated to keep the blood flowing. Standing occasionally and walking a bit may also help.

[obiwansbane]

once the seat belt signs are turned off... ask the air host or hostess to come over and tell them that u are going to practise self defence technqiues... practise them on the air host(ess) till the seatbelt sign comes back on then sit down u should have completly voided the chances of gettin it again...

good luck and i hope u get the courage to go travelling again soon!

[bushido_man96]

Sorry to hear that, Kerry. Is there any medication you can take for it?

[Shotokan-kez]

Ninja nurse, i knew that excersice is good to keep the circulation going, i do loads of walking and cycling, and of course my karate, is that enough to stop it? Also i heard a brisk 30 minute walk per day is good too, you ever heard of that?

Good idea obiwansbane, that should be fun!

Brian i have heard that some people take aspirin before long journey's because it thins the blood. Also flight socks are available for long haul flights,...How attractive! lol

[bushido_man96]

I have heard of people taking a baby aspirin a day, to help thin the blood. I would talk to the doctor before just doing it, though.