Travel Related Deep Vein Thrombosis

Deep vein thrombosis is a term used to describe clotting of blood in veins, and usually occurs in the lower leg regions, often in the calves and sometimes in the thighs.

Although deep vein thrombosis may occur at any time, and at any age, it is most commonly associated with long periods of travel where there is little or no movement.

Such examples could include long haul flights or coach journeys, in which your movement is severely restricted for several hours or more.

However it is important to note that long haul travel is not the only risk factor for developing deep vein thrombosis. Any situation in which you are unable to move around freely for more than a few hours may also put you at risk.

For example, sitting at a desk, watching TV or illnesses that confine you to your bed may all increase the risk of developing deep vein thrombosis.

Other factors which may increase the risk of deep vein thrombosis include changes in blood clotting potential (which may be caused by things that increase blood thickness, such as smoking or fatty foods) and changes in blood vessel shape (which may be caused by tight compression of limbs, or cardiovascular disease).

Blood Circulation And Deep Vein Thrombosis

The reason why long periods of inactivity can increase the risk of deep vein thrombosis, is because without movement you do not use your leg muscles.

Since these are also the same muscles that are responsible for assisting blood flow back to your heart, inactivity in these leg muscles can lead to poor circulation and an increased risk of developing a deep vein blood clot.

The first symptoms of reduced blood circulation usually manifest themselves as achy or swollen legs, which feel uncomfortable and restless. Numbness, pain and skin discolouration may also occur as circulation continues to decrease.

If blood circulation does not improve through activity of the leg muscles, then deep vein thrombosis may ultimately occur.

Effects Of Deep Vein Thrombosis

Deep vein thrombosis is generally not fatal, and most blood clots dissolve by themselves. However if the blood clot severely restricts the flow of blood through the vein, it may cause long term localised swelling, pain and discolouration of the leg.

If the blood clot remains untreated, there is around a 10% chance that it could lead to more serious complications, and even death.

For example, if a blood clot forms in a vein and subsequently becomes dislodged, it may travel to the lungs where it may block blood circulation.

If this occurs lung damage may result, which may cause death via a pulmonary embolism.