Avoiding deep vein thrombosis
Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or blood clots can be a risk for anyone sitting still on a long journey. Long haul flights lasting over 4 hours are thought to be more likely to cause blood clots, but long journeys by car, bus or train can also put you at danger. People with IBD have an increased risk of blood clots. You may also be at risk if you have had recent surgery.
You can reduce this risk during the journey by:
- Wearing loose fitting, comfortable clothing
- Drinking plenty of fluids but avoiding alcoholic and caffeinated drinks before and during the journey
- Avoiding smoking
- Rotating your ankles and flexing your calf muscles regularly
- Taking regular deep breaths
- Walking at regular intervals around the plane cabin or train carriage or during stops on bus and car travel
- Wearing travel compression socks/stockings – it is vital that they are properly fitted.
You may want to talk to your specialist about your risk of developing DVT and whether you should wear compression stockings or take anti-coagulant medication.
