Seniors who are traveling may be at risk for developing blood clots in the legs, particularly if they are sitting for long periods of time in one position. This medical condition can result in more serious complications if the clot begins to move and is known by several different names, including:
- DVT (Deep Vein Thrombosis)
- Traveler’s Thrombosis
- pulmonary embolus or PE (if the blood clot travels to the lung)
- pulmonary emboli (plural of the above)
Risks for DVT in Seniors who are Traveling
According to the Federal Aviation Association’s online article “Deep Vein Thrombosis and Travel,” seniors may be at increased risk for developing a DVT for several reasons, including:
- older age
- previous DVT
- history of heart disease
- history of cancer
- smoking
- obesity
- certain disorders related to blood clotting
- recent major surgery
- history of a recent traumatic injury
DVTs may be more likely to develop while sitting for extended periods, such as when riding for long periods of time in a car, bus, train, plane, or other vehicle. Decreased activity in the legs may lead to slower or impaired circulation. Sitting in one position for long periods of time without moving may also cause some constriction to the leg veins.
Symptoms of a DVT and Complications of DVT
A small DVT may develop in a leg with few or no symptoms. Many DVTs tend to have noticeable symptoms when compared to the other leg, such as:
- swelling
- redness
- pain or tenderness
The above symptoms should be reported to a healthcare professional. Notifying the healthcare provider that the person has recently been traveling and providing a medical history that includes medications and any pre-existing conditions may aid in making a diagnosis.
Sudden or severe chest pain, shortness of breath, coughing up blood, increase in pulse from normal, and/or a very low blood pressure warrants immediate emergency medical attention because this could result from a DVT traveling to and affecting circulation to other areas of the body. Serious complications such as a heart attack (myocardial infarction) or pulmonary embolus (blood clot in the lung) can potentially cause death.
How to Help Prevent DVT While Traveling
Although studies have not proven a causal relationship between flying and the formation of a DVT, general preventive measures may assist a person to help prevent blood clot formation in the legs.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s online article “Are You at Risk for Deep Vein Thromosis?,” several measures may help decrease the likelihood of developing a DVT:
- Walk around at least every two to three hours.
- Perform leg exercises while sitting, such as raising and lowering only the toes or only the heels of both feet.
- Tighten and loosen the leg muscles periodically.
- Stay well hydrated by drinking plenty of water and avoiding caffeine and alcohol.
- Maintain a healthy lifestyle and weight through proper diet and exercise.
- Avoid smoking.
Those with increased risk of developing a DVT may wish to speak with a healthcare provider regarding the appropriate use of:
- graduated compression stockings (support hose or medical compression stockings)
- anticoagulants (blood thinners)
Seniors Can Incorporate Measures to Prevent Blood Clots While Traveling
Although seniors are at increased risk for DVTs while traveling, they can decrease added risk through a healthy lifestyle. Recognizing signs of a DVT may help a senior to seek medical assistance in a timely manner, which can decrease potentially deadly complications of a DVT. Prescription medications or prescribed compression stockings may also help prevent DVTs in those who have a higher risk. By incorporating preventive measures while traveling, an older adult may be more likely to enjoy the vacation destination rather than having to deal with a DVT.
Information in this article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice.
Katrena Wells - Katrena Wells is a RN in NC with 17 1/2 years of experience in oncology, an educator since 1995, and has taught exercise classes since ...
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