What Is Traveller's Thrombosis?

Traveller's Thrombosis, or DVT, is a form of blood clotting, which most often occurs in the lower legs. Passengers above a certain age, flying on long-haul international flights most often experience this form of thrombosis. It is most likely to occur in people 40 years or older, as well as in anyone with some form of heart problems. Women taking hormone replacement treatment may also be more likely to experience this condition. The most common symptoms include swelling or pain in the legs.

Traveller's thrombosis is most likely to occur in passengers who stay in their seats for the duration of a long-haul flight and who do not exercise, or at least move their legs. On a flight of 6 hours or more, it is certainly advisable to get up from your seat at least once, either to go to the wash room, to stretch, or to simply move around the cabin. It is also very important to drink plenty of water throughout a long flight.