Last Updated on November 17, 2025 by Ugurkan Demir

Long flights can be risky for our health, mainly because of blood clots. Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a serious issue that can happen when we sit for too long, like on long flights. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention say about 900,000 people get blood clots each year in the U.S. Sadly, 100,000 of these cases are very severe.

At Liv Hospital, we know the dangers of air travel and DVT. We want to help our patients stay safe. By knowing why blood clots happen and taking steps to prevent them, you can lower your risk of DVT on flights.

Key Takeaways

• Understand the risks of deep vein thrombosis during long flights.
• Learn preventive measures to minimize the risk of blood clots.
• Stay hydrated and move regularly during air travel.
• Consider leg exercises and anticoagulant medication if necessary.
• Consult with healthcare professionals for personalized advice.

Understanding the Risk: Can Flying Cause Blood Clots?

Air travel can increase the risk of blood clots, known as deep vein thrombosis (DVT). It’s key to know what factors raise this risk and how they affect us in the air.

The Science Behind Blood Clots and Air Travel

Blood clots happen when blood flow is blocked or slows down. Long flights can cause this due to several reasons. Prolonged immobility is a big issue, as sitting for a long time makes blood pool in the legs. Also, cabin pressure changes and dehydration can raise the risk of clots.

On flights, the cabin air pressure is lower than on the ground. This lower pressure makes our bodies hold more fluid, causing swelling in the legs and feet. This can slow down blood circulation, making clots more likely.

Statistics on DVT Incidence During Flights

Flights over 8-10 hours are the riskiest for DVT. About 1 case of DVT happens per 4,650 long flights. Though the rate seems low, it’s important to remember the risk is real and can be serious for some people.

How Cabin Pressure and Altitude Affect Blood Circulation

The cabin pressure at cruising altitude is like being at 5,000 to 8,000 feet above sea level. This lower pressure can reduce oxygen in the blood, affecting circulation. Also, the dry cabin air can lead to dehydration, which worsens blood flow.

Knowing these factors helps us lower the risk of blood clots in the air. By understanding the risks and taking steps to prevent them, we can make flying safer for everyone.

Who’s at Higher Risk for Blood Clots During Air Travel?

The risk of blood clots during air travel changes from person to person. Some are more at risk due to health issues, physical traits, or past medical history.

Medical Conditions That Increase Risk

Some medical conditions raise the chance of blood clots during flights. These include:

• Cancer
• Recent surgery or trauma
• Heart disease
• Varicose veins
• Clotting disorders

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says the risk depends on the flight’s length and other factors. People with these conditions should be extra careful when flying.

Age, Weight, and Other Risk Factors

Age and weight are big factors in blood clot risk during air travel. Those over 40 and obese are at higher risk. Other factors include:

• Pregnancy or recent childbirth
• Hormone therapy or certain contraceptives
• Immobility or limited mobility

“The longer the flight, the higher the risk of blood clots, says a medical expert. We must think about these factors when we assess our risk.

Previous History of Blood Clots

People who’ve had blood clots before are more likely to get them again, during long flights. This is true if the previous clot was from flying or if they haven’t fully recovered.

We suggest talking to your doctor before flying if you’ve had blood clots. They can discuss preventive steps with you.

Medications That May Increase Risk

Some medications, like hormone therapies and certain contraceptives, can increase blood clot risk. It’s important to know these risks and talk to your doctor before flying.

Tell your doctor about any medications you’re taking before your flight. This helps them understand your risk and find the best way to protect you.

Recognizing Blood Clot After Flying Symptoms

It’s important to know the signs of blood clots after flying. Blood clots, or Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT), can happen when we fly. Knowing the symptoms can help avoid serious problems.

Early Warning Signs in Your Legs

The legs are where blood clots often form during or after flying. Look out for these symptoms:

• Swelling in one leg (rarely both legs)
• Pain or tenderness in the leg, which may feel like cramping or soreness
• Redness or discoloration of the affected leg
• The affected area feeling warm to the touch

About half of the people with DVT won’t notice any symptoms. So, it’s key to stay alert.

Symptoms of Pulmonary Embolism

A blood clot can break loose and go to the lungs, causing a pulmonary embolism. This is a serious condition that needs immediate medical help. Look out for these signs:

• Sudden shortness of breath
• Chest pain that worsens with deep breathing
• Coughing up blood
• Rapid heart rate

When to Seek Medical Attention

If you have any of these symptoms, get medical help right away:

1. Severe leg pain or swelling
2. Difficulty breathing
3. Chest pain or pressure

Getting help early can greatly improve your chances of recovery from blood clots.

Differentiating From Normal Travel Discomfort

It can be hard to tell if it’s just travel discomfort or a blood clot symptom. If you have ongoing or severe leg pain, swelling, or shortness of breath, see a doctor.

Knowing these symptoms and acting quickly can lower the risk of blood clot complications after flying.

The Dangers of Flying With a Blood Clot

Flying with a blood clot is very risky and can cause serious problems. Blood clots, like Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT), can get worse in the air. This is because you’re stuck in one place for a long time, the air pressure changes, and there’s less oxygen.

Potential Complications of Untreated DVT

Untreated DVT can get worse when you fly. The clot might break loose and travel to your lungs. This is called a pulmonary embolism (PE) and can be very dangerous.

Symptoms of a pulmonary embolism include sudden breathlessness, chest pain, and coughing up blood. If you have these symptoms after flying, get help right away.

How Cabin Pressure Affects Existing Clots

The air pressure in planes can make blood clots worse. At high altitudes, your body’s gases expand, causing discomfort and swelling. This can also lead to dehydration, making clots more likely.

Not everyone is at the same risk. The size and location of the clot, along with your health, affect how dangerous it is.

Medical Emergencies at 30,000 Feet

Medical emergencies due to blood clots on planes are tough to handle. There’s no hospital on the plane, and the nearest one might be far away.

In-flight medical emergencies need quick action. Flight attendants can help, but they can’t do everything. Sometimes, the plane has to land early, which is risky.

Before flying, talk to your doctor if you have a blood clot or are at risk. They can tell you if it’s safe to fly and what precautions to take.

Pre-Flight Preparation: Medical Consultation

Getting a medical check-up before flying is key for those at high risk. It’s a chance to talk about how to stay safe with your doctor. This is important for people with certain health issues or risks.

When to See a Doctor Before Flying

If you’ve had deep vein thrombosis (DVT), surgery recently, or have conditions like cancer or heart disease, see your doctor. Pregnant women and those with mobility issues should also get advice. They can get tips on how to stay safe in the air.

Medical Clearance for High-Risk Travelers

Getting medical clearance is vital for those at high risk. Doctors might suggest wearing compression stockings or taking blood thinners. This helps prevent blood clots and gives you peace of mind.

Documentation to Carry While Traveling

Travelers with health issues should carry important documents. This includes a doctor’s note, a list of medicines, and any clearance papers. Having these ready can be lifesaving in an emergency.

By following these steps, you can lower your risk of blood clots or other issues in the air. Always talk to a healthcare expert to figure out the best plan for you.

Essential Gear: Compression Stockings for Air Travel

Compression stockings are a key tool for preventing blood clots on flights. They are popular among travelers to lower the risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) on long flights.

These stockings apply pressure to your legs, with more pressure at the ankle. This pressure helps blood flow better and lowers clot risk.

How Compression Stockings Work

Compression stockings improve blood flow by applying pressure. This pressure helps counteract the effects of sitting for long times on flights. It reduces the risk of blood clots.

Choosing the Right Compression Level

Compression stockings have different levels of pressure, measured in mmHg. For flying, 15-20 mmHg is usually recommended. Always talk to a doctor to find the right level for you.

Proper Fitting and Wearing Techniques

Wearing compression stockings right is key. Put them on in the morning when your legs are less swollen. Wear them all the way through the flight.

Research on Effectiveness for DVT Prevention

Many studies show that compression stockings prevent DVT on long trips. A big review of trials found that they greatly lower DVT risk in travelers.

In summary, compression stockings are a great way to prevent blood clots on flights. By understanding their benefits, picking the right level, and wearing them correctly, you can lower your DVT risk.

Hydration Strategies to Prevent Blood Clots on Airplanes

Staying hydrated is key to avoiding deep vein thrombosis on flights. The dry air and low pressure can cause dehydration. This makes blood thicker and increases clotting risk. Knowing how to stay hydrated before and during flights can lower blood clot risk.

Optimal Fluid Intake Before and During Flights

Drink plenty of water to prevent dehydration and blood clots. Start hydrating 24 hours before your flight with 8-10 glasses of water. During the flight, drink at least one glass of water for every hour.

Tips for Staying Hydrated:

• Drink water regularly throughout the flight
• Avoid caffeinated and alcoholic beverages that can exacerbate dehydration
• Consider bringing a refillable water bottle to the airport and filling it up after security

Beverages to Choose and Avoid

Not all drinks are good for staying hydrated. Water is best, but herbal teas and electrolyte-rich drinks are also good. Avoid caffeinated and alcoholic drinks as they can dehydrate you.

Balancing Hydration and Bathroom Trips

It’s important to balance drinking water with avoiding too many bathroom trips. Drink water slowly throughout the flight, not all at once.

By following these tips, we can reduce blood clot risk on flights. We’ll arrive at our destination feeling healthier and more comfortable.

Movement Matters: Exercises to Prevent Blood Clots on Long Flights

Flying can be tough on our bodies, but we can fight it with movement. Simple exercises like ankle circles, foot pumps, and knee lifts help keep blood flowing. This can lower the risk of blood clots on long flights.

In-Seat Leg Exercises

Doing leg exercises in your seat is easy and keeps blood moving. These moves are subtle and won’t draw attention. Here are some good ones:

• Ankle circles: Rotate your ankles in both clockwise and counterclockwise directions.
• Foot pumps: Lift your feet up and down, as if you’re pressing pedals.
• Knee lifts: Slowly lift your knees up towards your chest and then lower them back down.
• Toe wiggles: Wiggle your toes back and forth to keep the muscles in your feet active.

Walking Schedule During Flight

While seat exercises are good, walking is even better. Get up and walk every 2-3 hours on long flights. Even a short walk can boost blood flow.

When walking, aim for:

• Slow, deliberate steps.
• Stretching your legs and back.
• Deep breaths to improve oxygenation.

Stretching Routines for Long-Haul Flights

Stretching also helps with flexibility and blood flow. Here are some stretches for long flights:

• Neck stretches: Slowly tilt your head to the side, bringing your ear towards your shoulder.
• Shoulder rolls: Roll your shoulders forward and backward in a circular motion.
• Chest stretches: Place your hands behind you on the armrests and gently lean back, stretching your chest.

By adding these exercises to your travel routine, you can lower blood clot risk on long flights. Remember, staying active is key to keeping your blood flowing.

Strategic Seating: How Your Seat Choice Affects Clot Risk

Choosing the right seat on a plane is key to avoiding blood clots. Long flights increase the risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Your seat can play a big role in this risk.

Benefits of Aisle Seats

Aisle seats can lower blood clot risk. They let you walk and stretch more, improving blood flow. Getting up and moving without bothering others is easier, helping you stay active on long flights.

• Easier access to the aisle for walking
• More opportunities to stretch your legs
• Less disturbance to other passengers when getting up

Legroom Considerations

Legroom is vital in preventing blood clots on flights. Seats with more legroom let you stretch and move better, lowering clot risk. Look for seats with extra legroom when booking.

Exit Row and Bulkhead Options

Exit rows and bulkhead seats have more legroom than standard seats. They’re great for reducing DVT risk. But, these seats might require you to help in emergencies.

When to Consider Premium Seating

For those at high DVT risk, premium seating might be worth it. These seats offer more legroom and comfort. They’re pricier, but they’re better for your circulation and comfort.

In summary, your seat choice on a plane greatly affects blood clot risk. Aisle seats, considering legroom, and looking at exit row or bulkhead options are smart choices. They help you stay safe from blood clots.

Medication Options for Preventing Deep Vein Thrombosis on Flights

For those at risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), taking medication during flights is key. Some people might need medicine to stop DVT while flying. This is true for those who have had blood clots before or have other risk factors.

Over-the-Counter Options

There’s no special OTC medicine just for DVT prevention on flights. But, aspirin might help because it stops blood from clotting. Always talk to a doctor before taking aspirin or any other DVT prevention medicine. It might not be right for everyone and can cause side effects.

Prescription Anticoagulants

For those at higher risk, doctors might suggest prescription anticoagulants. These medicines thin the blood to stop clots. Warfarin, apixaban, and rivaroxaban are common ones. The right medicine depends on your health history, other medicines, and DVT risk.

Who Should Consider Medication

Medicine for DVT prevention on flights is for those at high risk of blood clots. This includes people with DVT or pulmonary embolism history, clotting disorders, and those having major surgery. Age, obesity, and certain health conditions also increase the need for medicine.

Potential Side Effects and Considerations

Anticoagulants can prevent DVT but also raise bleeding risk. People on these medicines should watch for bleeding signs and know when to get help. They can also interact with other drugs and foods, needing careful management.

Talk to your doctor about your risk and the pros and cons of medicine before flying. This will help figure out the best way to prevent DVT for you.

Special Considerations When Flying With a Blood Clot

Flying with a blood clot or a history of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) needs careful planning. We will look at the key things to consider for safe air travel in these cases.

When It’s Safe to Fly After a DVT Diagnosis

When to fly after a DVT diagnosis is very important. Doctors usually suggest waiting a bit after the diagnosis or treatment starts. This wait helps the clot stabilize and lowers the risk of problems during the flight.

Doctor’s Recommendations and Restrictions

Always talk to your doctor before flying, if you’ve had DVT. They might suggest taking anticoagulant medicine, wearing compression stockings, or other steps based on your situation.

Additional Precautions for Those With History of Clots

People with a history of blood clots should take extra steps when flying. Stay hydrated, do leg exercises often, and avoid tight clothes. It’s smart to talk to your healthcare provider about your travel plans.

Also, think about the timing of your flight. Choose flights with more room or seats that are easier to move in. These steps can help reduce your risk of problems during the flight.

Conclusion: Creating Your Personal Flight Safety Plan

Understanding the risks of blood clots on flights is key to prevention. We’ve seen how a detailed plan is vital to avoid Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) while flying.

A good flight safety plan includes staying hydrated, doing exercises in your seat, and wearing compression socks. These steps can greatly lower the chance of blood clots.

Preventing blood clots on flights needs a mix of strategies. It’s wise for travelers to think about their own health risks and how often they fly. This helps in making better DVT prevention plans.

By taking these steps, flying can be safer and healthier. We suggest everyone make their own flight safety plan. This way, they can enjoy a safe and comfortable trip.

FAQ

Reference

1. National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) — The association between air travel and deep vein thrombosis: Scientific review on risk factors and preventive measures.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC434500