 Economy
Class Syndrome?
If you're planning to travel, make sure you keep moving.
Researchers in Britain have found that deep vein thrombosis, sometimes
known as "economy class syndrome" is more common than
most people think, and it can cost travelers their lives.
Deep vein thrombosis occurs when a person stays in the same position,
such as sitting on an airplane or in a car, for prolonged periods
of time. This allows blood to pool in parts of the body, especially
the legs. Clots can then break off from the pool and travel to the
heart or brain, causing a heart attack or stroke.
Although the condition is known as economy class syndrome, it seems
to be more closely linked to travel habits than to ticket prices. Travelers
on red-eye, overnight flights are most at risk, because they tend
to sleep for hours during the flight, as are people who have a history
of poor circulation.
Reduce Your Risk:
Keep the Blood Flowing
The best way to reduce your risk of deep vein thrombosis is to
increase your blood flow:
- Get up and walk every few hours to increase the circulation
in your legs. Research shows that sitting still for as little
as two to three hours can put you at risk.
- While sitting, flex your feet and ankles often and change your
body position periodically.
- Eat lightly before traveling-this increases the oxygen level
in your blood and promotes circulation. Eating a fatty, heavy
meal before traveling can have the opposite effect.
- Drink plenty of fluids, but steer clear of alcohol and caffeinated
beverages, which can increase your risk.
- Wear support stockings while traveling-these put pressure on
the leg veins to improve blood flow.
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