A leading vascular surgeon has issued a stark warning about the risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) during air travel, describing a 'three-hit combo' that endangers passengers. Dr Rema Malik explained that many people are unaware of the physiological stresses flying imposes, which can lead to dangerous blood clots.
According to the NHS, DVT is a blood clot in a vein, usually in the leg, and can be life-threatening. Dr Malik outlined three key factors: prolonged sitting shuts down calf muscles, reducing blood flow; dry cabin air dehydrates the body, thickening the blood; and lower cabin pressure causes veins to expand, making valves less efficient. 'When the cabin door closes, you enter a three-hit combo environment perfectly designed to create a blood clot,' she said.
Dr Malik stressed that symptoms of DVT include swelling, pain, and redness in the leg, but can also occur in the arm or abdomen. She urged passengers to take proactive steps to protect themselves. Her recommendations include wearing compression socks (15-20 mmHg), drinking 8 ounces of water per hour of flight (avoiding coffee and alcohol), and performing 30 ankle pumps every 30 minutes to stimulate circulation.
'The truth is that you wouldn't drive a car without oil. Don't fly a body without circulation,' Dr Malik added. She emphasised that these measures are essential for all travellers, regardless of age.
