underrated dangers
Blood clots also known as deep vein thrombosis( DVT) form in the deep veins( veins below the surface that are not visible through the skin) of your legs, during long hours of sitting in the same seat and not moving around.
The more you are immovable, the greater is your risk of getting a blood clot.
Many times a blood clot will dissolve on its own, but a serious problem may occur when part of the blood clot breaks off and moves to other parts of the body like lungs, brain, heart and other areas.
In the lungs, it causes a blockage called pulmonary embolism which can lead to death.
Anybody travelling by bus, car, train or air is at risk of blood clot.
About half of people with blot clots have no symptoms at all but most common are swelling of legs, pain or tenderness that you can’ t explain, increased warmth in one leg and redness of the skin.
However, DVT is not a killer disease that can be prevented and it’ s treatable.
“ If you travel long distances make sure you get up and walk at least every 2 hours and try not to sleep 4 hours continously”, said
Dr. Alan Lumsden, a vascular surgery doctor in Houston, Texas.
Drink plenty of water or juices, wear fitting clothing, eat light meals and limit alcohol consumption.
Elderly people and those with blood circulation problems should wear compression stockings that prevent clots from forming in the deep veins.
If youcan’ t get up and move around every couple of hours, you can do the following exercises while sited down; extend both legs and feet back and forth in a circular motion.
Move the knee up to the chest and hold the stretch for at least 15 seconds. Put both feet on the floor and point them upwards, also put both feet flat and lift both heels as high as possible.
It is advisable to visit a physician before travelling because he might suggest that you go on blood thinners or simply take an Aspirin before and during a long trip to avoid blood clot.
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