Drs John Coffin and David Acorn
Family Medical Practice

Self Help

Preventing Deep Vein Thrombosis

If you are a traveller on a long haul flight or on a long coach journey you are more at risk of a deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or blood clot in the legs.

Symptoms of a DVT

• swelling of the calf or leg 

• pain and/or tenderness of the calf or thigh

• the calf may feel warm to the touch

Not all of these symptoms may be present.

A DVT can be dangerous because the blood clot can move in the circulation and lodge in the lung. This is called a pulmonary embolism and can sometimes be fatal.

Prevention of a DVT

• drink plenty of fluids, but avoid coffee and alcohol which can dehydrate you

• while sitting, lift your toes off the floor and point them upwards until the calves stretch, then push down on the toes and lift the heels. Repeat this regularly

• circle your ankles, lift your foot off the floor while sitting and draw a circle with the toes

• get up and walk around whenever you can

• wear some special anti-thrombosis stockings

• don't have anything pressing against your calves

• avoid tight socks which can restrict the circulation

• don't sleep or sit for a long time with your legs crossed

• do some deep breathing exercises

People who may need medical help to prevent DVTs

If you have the following conditions you are at increased risk of a DVT, and it may be a good idea to come and discuss further preventative measures or the suitability of the journey.

• paralysis of a lower limb

• malignancy (cancer)

• previous DVT or pulmonary embolism

• recent major surgery, especially hip or knee replacement

• congestive heart failure

• pregnant women

Using the contraceptive pill also increases the risk

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