WARNING: The following post contains images that may be disturbing to some readers.
We look at what is travel-related DVT (deep vein thrombosis), and how wearing quality compression socks can help you reduce your risk of blood clots on long haul flights occuring.
What is DVT?
When blood flow is slow or sluggish, as can happen in poorly performing leg veins, your leg muscles compensate by helping to power blood up your legs to the heart. However, if your movements are restricted for a period of time, such as sitting without moving for a long period, your ankles swell and legs ache. There may also be a low risk of a deep vein thrombosis or blood clot forming if you are at particular risk.
"DVT (deep vein thrombosis) is when a blood clot forms in a deep vein, usually in the leg, and blocks blood flow. It can happen after sitting still during long journeys by bus, train, or air." Source NHS
DVT can be dangerous and you should get medical help as soon as possible if you think one has occurred.
Symptoms of DVT in the leg are:
- a throbbing or cramping pain in one leg (rarely both legs). The occurrence is usually in the calf or thigh
- swelling in one leg (rarely both legs)
- warm skin around the painful area
- red or darkened skin around the painful area
- swollen veins that are hard or sore when touched
What DVT in the leg can look like:
Source NHS
Prevention of DVT
The risk of DVT is usually low, but you can help reduce the likelihood further by wearing compression travel socks. Wearing compression travel socks will assist in making your legs feel fresher post flight by ensuring an improved circulation whilst airborne.
When travelling take every opportunity to take a break from sitting and move. Utilise walkways where possible. If you can't leave your seat flex your shoulders, feet and ankles to encourage circulation in your body. It is also a good idea to drink plenty of water to remain well hydrated and wear loose clothing.
During the flight try to avoid stimulants such as caffeine or alcohol. Don't press your calves against your seat, or use footrests that leave your feet dangling as these can all slightly increase the risk.
What You Need to Know About Compression Socks Before You Buy
"Compression socks work by promoting improved blood flow in your legs. The compression of the socks gently pushes blood flow up the leg, helping to prevent swelling and even blood clots". If you have noticed your legs swelling or the appearance of varicose veins, for example, compression socks would be a great product to help increase the blood flow. Many people can benefit from compression socks after surgery, during pregnancy or as legs become achy, swollen or heavy feeling.
"Compression socks are NOT created equal. The quality of the material, the sizing, the durability and the amount of compression or pressure the garment provides all culminate into the final product,” Oaklahoma Heart Institute
Masters of Mayfair Compression Socks
Our luxury compression socks have been specially designed to provide a medical grade graduated compression (Swiss tested) over both male and female lower legs while allowing maximum comfort .
We use only the finest modal yarn for enhanced breathability. Cheaper variants often leave toes and feet rather sweaty causing discomfort over prolonged use.
This provides better movement to the calves and lowers legs after travelling by reducing fatigue and aiding fast recovery. Our travel socks help keep your feet cool and at the perfect temperature over long periods; No more soreness, puffiness or swelling.
Our socks helps regulate blood circulation which can be reduced when these situations arise. While they are ideal for long plane, car or train journeys, our socks can also be used at home to help reduce daily fatigue after a long day.
The socks are available in three sizes:
Small: UK 3-6 / US 3-8 / EURO 35-38.5
Medium: UK 6.5-9 / US 8.5-10 / EURO 39-43.5
Large: UK 9.5-12 / US 10.5-13 / EURO 44-47
We ensure our socks are of the highest quality and made to last unlike cheaper alternatives. If you are unhappy, we offer a money back guarantee.
An ideal gift or present for those who frequently travel, planning a long trip away or spend long periods standing in their profession such as surgeons, nurses and other medical staff.
Directions for use: Our compression stockings are designed to be worn in place of normal socks throughout your entire journey. Always wear both socks and ensure they are pulled up to just below the knee.
Machine washable at 30C.
Images
Thanks to:
Photo by Joakim Honkasalo on Unsplash
