If You Have Plans to Travel this Summer Be Sure to Keep Your Legs Moving to Avoid Deep Vein Thrombosis

If you are traveling this summer, you might want to make sure you work in some leg stretches along the way. When you sit for any extended period of time, blood clots, or deep vein thrombosis, can develop deep inside the veins in the legs and they can become life threatening.

Deep Vein Thrombosis in Left Leg

Serious blood clots are typically more common after the age of 60, and are twice as likely to occur during long-distance travel. If a blood clot forms in the leg, it can potentially break off and travel up to the lungs where it can block normal breathing. This is called a pulmonary embolism and can be fatal if left untreated

To reduce your chances of getting deep vein thrombosis or a pulmonary embolism while traveling, you should:

•    Move your legs often in your seat
•    Do stretches by flexing and pointing your toes
•    Walk up and down the aisle
•    If traveling by car, stop every couple of hours and walk around for a few minutes.
•    Wear compression socks or stockings if you have a history of clotting or circulation problems
•    Discuss your travel plans with health-care provider
•    Stay well-hydrated during your journey

Since summer is a popular season for travel, make sure you know how to reduce your chances of deep vein thrombosis.

If you are experiencing pain and swelling in your leg and you suspect that you might have deep vein thrombosis please contact our office immediately to schedule an evaluation with one of our board certified endovascular surgeons. We have 3 convenient office locations Coconut Creek, Boynton Beach and Plantation, Florida. Contact us today at 954-725-4141.