DVT precautions

[gmc2002]

I am about to make a long haul flight. Are there any precautions I could take which would reduce the risk of DVT, I know about hydration and excercise during the flight but what about aspirins as an example ?

[bobbobley]

My GP has recommended taking as Aspirin to me as it helps to thin the blood. I've also got an exercise thing that you put under your feet and move backwards and forwards - if its there all the time you can just use it every now and then without thinking about having to do exercises. Don't drink alcohol was his other bit of advice, but I think if I'm on a plane for 11 hours its gonna be hard not to have one when there's not much else to do!

[Pinotage]

Get Scholl travel socks, designed to offer protection against DVT. They are really good, stopped the usual long haul discomfort and swelling in my legs

[wildwood]

Long haul travel, the bane of flying. Looks like you're already up to date with DVT etc. Try to avoid the alcohol, apart from maybe two glasses of wine during the whole flight.
If you can't sleep here's what I find helpful; Make a plan of the flight and break it up in parts not exceeding 1 1/2 hours each. For each session have something planned - reading, crossword etc. At the end of each period make a point of going to the toilet furthest away from your seat, this will revitalise the pegs. (it also wakes those annoying people who seem to have no trouble sleeping on the fight). If there are empty seats and someone else is looking forlorn, have a chat and/or maybe play cards or something. Most people would be glad to have a chat to pass the time. Good luck.