Making sure of your health before traveling is very important. Traveling is a strenuous activity that can take a huge toll on your body. Even if you are not walking the majority of the time or moving, the stress, time taken and coordinating important things can make you feel very tired. While the thought of relaxing on a holiday flight is exciting, a doctor reminds us that just like pilots do pre-flight checks, travelers should also take steps to protect their health. If you are traveling by plane, you may not be as worried as there is not much movement required and no struggle with luggage after you hand it off. However, there could be another reason for worry lurking. Foot surgeon Dr. Dana Digura, who has a large following on Instagram, is raising awareness about the risk of Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) during long journeys. Who Is At Risk Of Deep Vein Thrombosis? According to the National Health Services UK, DVT is a blood clot that occurs in a vein, usually in the leg. Some symptoms of it include throbbing pain in one leg, swelling in one leg, warm skin around the painful area, swollen veins as well as darkened skin around the painful area. Dr. Digura points out that certain individuals face a greater risk of developing DVT on flights. These include:Those taking birth control pillsPregnant womenIndividuals with obesityPeople who have recently had surgerySmokersIndividuals with varicose veinsIn response to a query about a fiancée on birth control traveling by plane, Dr. Digura confirmed the risk, stating that flights over four hours, sometimes referred to as "economy class syndrome," can increase the likelihood of a "potential deathly blood clot called DVT." She further noted that this risk is even greater on flights exceeding six hours. According to the Anatolian Journal of Cardiology 2021, the name "economy class syndrome" comes from the fact that these blood clots often happen to passengers sitting in the more cramped economy section on long flights. However, it's not just about being in economy, it is because of a mix of things related to being on a plane and the person flying.According to Mayo Clinic some other risk factors to consider are, AgeBeing older than 60, however it can happen at any age Lack of movementWhen there is no movement in your legs for a very long time, the calf muscles do not contract. The reason why this is concerning is because these muscle contractions help blood flow. So, sitting for too long, like flying or driving, could cause paralysis or a long visit to the hospital. SmokingSince it affects how the blood flows and could lead to clots, it can increase risk of DVT. How Can You Reduce The Risk Of DVT Dr. Digura offers straightforward advice for those concerned about blood clots during flights. Move Around RegularlyAim to get up and walk around every hour. This helps activate your calf muscles and prevents blood from pooling in your legs. In-Seat Exercises If you can't walk, engage your calf muscles with exercises like foot pumps (pointing and flexing your toes), calf raises, and ankle circles. Dr. Digura also suggests that travelers of all ages consider using compression socks to help protect against blood clots. She specifically mentioned affordable options available from retailers like Boots and Amazon. These socks can aid in reducing swelling and improving blood circulation. Boots further explains that compression socks can significantly improve circulation, support veins, and prevent leg swelling, blisters, shin splints, and general discomfort. If you experience symptoms of DVT along with breathlessness or chest pain, seek immediate medical attention by calling emergency services or going to the nearest emergency room.