December 20, 2010
Tens of thousands of us develop blood clots each year. Sometimes, they start as a pain in your thigh. Often, the cause is too little movement for too long a period of time. Hence, the need to take breaks and walk around if you are traveling in a car. Get up and move about on the plane or train or bus. Stretch your toes forward from your ankles when you are sitting and then pull your toes back. Repeat half a dozen times.
Stay hydrated. Drink water and not alcohol. For more advice about traveling and blood clots, visit http://www.mdtravelhealth.com/illness/deep_vein_thrombosis.html.
AND, talk to your family about this. Ask, “has anyone had a blood clot?” Your family history may predict greater than average risk. All of us need to avoid cramped spaces and long periods of not moving around. Some of us may have a family history that suggests we should be tested for genetic contributors to clotting. You won’t know if you don’t…ask.
