Flying and Blood Clots: Essential Safety Tips, Risks, and Prevention Strategies

Extended periods of immobility, like those experienced during long flights, can elevate your risk of developing blood clots, which may lead to severe, life-threatening complications. However, with proper precautions, even individuals with a history of blood clots can travel by air safely and comfortably.

Blood clots form when the normal flow of blood slows or stops. Remaining seated for long durations can impair circulation, increasing the chance of clot formation.

Flights lasting four hours or more are recognized as a significant risk factor for deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE), serious conditions that can have fatal outcomes.

Continue reading to understand how flying impacts blood clot risk and learn practical tips to minimize this risk.

Why Are Blood Clots a Serious Concern?

Blood clotting is a natural process that prevents excessive bleeding. However, when clots develop inside blood vessels, a condition known as thrombosis, they can obstruct blood flow.

Uninterrupted blood circulation is vital since blood delivers oxygen to the brain and other organs. Partial or complete blockages can prevent oxygen from reaching these areas, compromising bodily functions.

When clots form in veins, this is called venous thromboembolism (VTE), which includes both DVT and PE. DVT typically affects the limbs, while PE occurs if a clot travels to the lungs, potentially hindering heart function and causing heart failure. Both conditions are medical emergencies.

How Does Air Travel Increase Blood Clot Risk?

Long-haul flights triple the likelihood of developing blood clots during or shortly after travel.

Prolonged sitting reduces movement, which slows blood circulation. Additionally, the lower cabin air pressure in airplanes results in mild hypoxia—reduced oxygen intake—which can further slow blood flow and increase clot risk. This can sometimes escalate into DVT or PE.

Your healthcare provider will assess your fitness to fly based on factors such as:

• Your personal medical history
• Size and location of any existing clots
• Duration of the flight

Blood Clot Risk Factors to Consider

Several factors can heighten your susceptibility to blood clots, especially during extended flights, including:

• Previous blood clot incidents
• Family history of clotting disorders
• Genetic clotting conditions like factor V Leiden thrombophilia
• Age 40 and above
• Smoking
• Obesity (high BMI)
• Use of estrogen-containing contraceptives
• Hormone replacement therapy (HRT)
• Recent surgeries (within 3 months)
• Injuries causing vein damage
• Current or recent pregnancy (up to six weeks postpartum or after pregnancy loss)
• Cancer or cancer history
• Presence of large vein catheters
• Wearing a leg cast

Effective Prevention Measures While Flying

You can take proactive steps to lower your blood clot risk during flights:

• Medication: Based on your health profile, your doctor might prescribe blood thinners or aspirin to take 1-2 hours before flying.
• Compression Socks: These enhance leg blood flow during flights. Ensure you select the appropriate type and consult your doctor if uncertain.
• Seat Selection: Opt for aisle or bulkhead seats, or invest in extra legroom to facilitate movement.
• Movement: Walk around the cabin hourly and perform calf exercises while seated, such as ankle flexes and knee-to-chest stretches.
• Inform the Airline: Notify the cabin crew if you are prone to clots for additional support.
• Leg Massage: Use a tennis or lacrosse ball to gently massage your thigh muscles, promoting circulation.

According to the 2021 American Society of Hematology (ASH) guidelines, preventive medications and compression hosiery are especially recommended for those at elevated risk.

Additional tips include:

• Avoid crossing your legs to maintain optimal blood flow.
• Wear loose-fitting, comfortable clothing.
• Stay well-hydrated by drinking at least 8 ounces of water every hour and limit dehydrating beverages like alcohol and caffeine.

Preventing Blood Clots in Other Travel Modes

Prolonged immobility during car, bus, or train travel can also increase clot risk. To counter this:

• Take scheduled breaks to stretch or walk during car trips.
• Stand, stretch, and walk in aisles during bus or train journeys. If space is limited, perform seated leg exercises or use restrooms to move around.

Recognizing Blood Clot Symptoms

Watch for signs such as:

• Leg pain, cramping, or tenderness
• Swelling in one leg or ankle
• Discoloration or reddish-blue patches on the skin
• Warmth in the affected area compared to the rest of the leg

Note that blood clots can sometimes be asymptomatic.

If DVT is suspected, diagnostic tests like venous ultrasound, venography, or MR angiography will be performed.

Symptoms of pulmonary embolism include:

• Shortness of breath
• Chest pain
• Coughing
• Dizziness
• Irregular heartbeat
• Excessive sweating
• Leg swelling

PE is a medical emergency requiring immediate treatment, often confirmed via CT scan.

Common Questions About Blood Clots and Flying

Is it safe to fly with a blood clot?

Flying shortly after a blood clot diagnosis or treatment increases the risk of complications. Consult your doctor to determine when it is safe to travel.

Can you fly while taking blood thinners?

Many healthcare providers advise waiting at least four weeks after completing blood thinner therapy before flying.

How do you know if a blood clot is moving?

Signs include heart palpitations, chest pain, shortness of breath, dizziness, and fever, which require urgent medical attention.

Does flying worsen blood clots?

Prolonged immobility and reduced cabin pressure during flights can exacerbate clot risk. It’s generally recommended to avoid flying for at least four weeks after a clot diagnosis to allow medication to take effect.

Summary

Long flights can increase blood clot risk, especially for those with additional risk factors. Understanding your personal risk and adopting preventive strategies during travel can safeguard your health.

If you are undergoing treatment or have recently recovered from a blood clot, consult your healthcare provider before flying. They may suggest delaying travel or prescribe medications to minimize risk.

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