Like socks designed to combat Deep Vein Thrombosis, Bridgedale socks have areas of compression designed into them. So what is DVT, and why can it happen on aircraft. Quite simply Deep Vein Thrombosis is when a clot forms in a vein. This is quite rare in younger people but common in the more elderly. If the clot breaks away it can travel through the bloodstream to the heart and lungs, which can prove fatal. Flying is not the only situation in which a person can develop DVT, but it is probably the most publicised. A recent study concluded that fly often have a 5% chance of developing Deep Vein Thrombosis in any one calendar year.
So what makes air travel bring on DVT? There is a common belief that is the lack of leg room offered in economy class seats that is the main cause, however, it appears to occur just as often to business and first class passengers, so the suspicion is that it is altitude and the reduced air pressure as much as the relative lack of movement for long periods that sets it off; though occurrences of Deep Vein Thrombosis on aircraft seem to affect 15-20% of people on short haul flights. People with certain circulatory conditions seem to be more at risk.
There are certain recommendations given to help avoid suffering DVT on board a flight. One is to try exercising your legs. Often there is little chance of moving around the plane, except to go to the loo. Using Bridgedale socks or flight compression socks is touted as a preventive measure, as is doing leg exercises in your seat. For example, tensing and relaxing your calf and thigh muscles. It is also suggested that you try to avoid falling asleep. Another thing you should avoid is the consumption of alcohol. Water or sports drinks are suggested instead.
The symptoms of Deep Vein Thrombosis may occur several days after your flight, or even as much as a fortnight after. The symptoms include: Swelling or tenderness in one lower leg and/or behind the knee. Shortness of breath, chest pains, cramps in your side, similar to a stitch, coughing up blood and fainting.
If you experience any unusual symptoms within two weeks of a flight, it is advisable to visit a doctor and explain your anxiety. There are several tests that can be carried out for clots and pulmonary embolisms. Not all of the people who develop Deep Vein Thrombosis will display the above symptoms and can therefore develop a pulmonary embolism, apparently out of the blue. If you believe you are susceptible to Deep Vein Thrombosis, it may be a good idea to get checked out, even if you do not show any apparent symptoms.