Are you planning a long flight for your next vacation or business trip? If you live with swollen, twisted leg veins, spending hours in a cramped airplane seat can be more than just uncomfortable.
At Cardiovascular Institute of America, Muthu Velusamy, MD, FACC, ABVM, helps patients in Tampa and Lutz, Florida, manage their vascular health safely. If you have varicose veins, taking a few simple precautions before you board a long-haul flight can make a major difference in how your legs feel when you land.
Approximately 25% of all adults in the United States have chronic venous insufficiency (CVI), which most commonly shows up as varicose veins. Some people think these veins are just a cosmetic issue, but they’re actually a sign of this progressive disease, which can cause painful leg swelling and poor circulation.
When you sit still for long periods, your calf muscles don't contract to help pump blood back up to your heart. This causes blood to pool in your lower legs, which increases pressure on your vein walls.
For travelers with vein disease, flights lasting longer than four hours present specific concerns: Having varicose veins is a recognized risk factor for developing dangerous blood clots during long-distance travel.
Fortunately, you can take active steps to protect your legs and keep your blood flowing smoothly during your journey. Here are six practical tips to follow on your next flight.
Graduated compression socks apply gentle pressure to your lower legs, which helps your veins push blood back toward your heart.
Booking an aisle seat gives you more room to stretch your legs and makes it much easier to stand up without disturbing your neighbors.
Stand up and walk up and down the airplane aisle for a few minutes every hour to get your calf muscles working.
While seated, rotate your ankles in circles and pump your feet up and down to stimulate lower leg circulation.
Drink plenty of water before and during your flight, as dehydration can cause your blood vessels to narrow and increase your risk of developing clots.
Crossing your legs at your knees or ankles can restrict lower extremity blood flow, so try to keep your feet flat on the floor.
You don't have to let vein discomfort ground your travel plans. If you're concerned about your vascular health or want to explore long-term treatment options, we're here to help.
Contact your nearest Cardiovascular Institute of America location today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Velusamy. We have one office in Lutz, Florida, and two offices in Tampa.
