Tags: blood | clots | plane | flight | risk

Are Blood Clots a Big Risk on Plane Flights?

By    |   Friday, 25 April 2014 10:00 AM EDT

Question: I'm planning a long plane flight (12 hours) and am worried about blood clots. Is there anything I can do to prepare? Exercise, eat a certain diet, maybe drink wine on the plane?

Dr. Hibberd's answer:
 
Extended plane flight or car travel is a risk factor for peripheral clot formation, especially for those over the age of 50. It is the prolonged immobility that poses your risks for blood clot development in your legs. Pre-trip diet and exercise seem to have little effect one way or the other, but weight management is important to keep your risks lower.
 
One baby aspirin (81 milligrams) taken daily for several days before your trip, and continuing until your return, will offer some protection. Be sure to stretch your legs hourly and get up and take a few steps around the cabin during your trip to reduce venous pooling and stasis. Sometimes support hose may be recommended, but if you do use these, be sure they are waist high and not cut off at the calf, knee, or thigh. The shorter lengths of support hose may actually increase your chances of clot development in areas above the stocking, especially when on long trips.
 
Stay well hydrated with water during your trip, and eat sensibly. A glass or two of wine would be fine, but I do not see this as a clot preventer for travel purposes. Always check with your personal physician for vaccine recommendations and medication guidance before your trip, as well as for ideas to reduce your personal risk of travel-associated blood clots. Enjoy your trip! 
 

© 2026 NewsmaxHealth. All rights reserved.


Dr-Hibberd
Extended plane flight or car travel is a risk factor for blood clots, but there are steps you can take to stay safe.
blood, clots, plane, flight, risk
267
2014-00-25
Friday, 25 April 2014 10:00 AM
Newsmax Media, Inc.

Sign up for Newsmax’s Daily Newsletter

Receive breaking news and original analysis - sent right to your inbox.

(Optional for Local News)
Privacy: We never share your email address.
Join the Newsmax Community
Read and Post Comments
Please review Community Guidelines before posting a comment.
 
Find Your Condition
Get Newsmax Text Alerts
TOP

The information presented on this website is not intended as specific medical advice and is not a substitute for professional medical treatment or diagnosis. Read Newsmax Terms and Conditions of Service.

Newsmax, Moneynews, Newsmax Health, and Independent. American. are registered trademarks of Newsmax Media, Inc. Newsmax TV, and Newsmax World are trademarks of Newsmax Media, Inc.

NEWSMAX.COM
© Newsmax Media, Inc.
All Rights Reserved
NEWSMAX.COM
© Newsmax Media, Inc.
All Rights Reserved