Long-haul flights: compression stockings reduce the risk for traveler’s thrombosis.
Above the clouds, the risk for thrombosis can be reduced by wearing compression stockings
Sitting still for long periods, the knees bent, and air humidity lower than that in the Sahara: flying economy is for the passengers associated with many hardships – and risks. For anyone who sticks to the same place for hours and hours under these conditions is at risk of developing a blood clot in his/her leg veins - a thrombosis – which, if it comes to the worst, can lead to pulmonary embolism. The risk for traveler’s thrombosis can, however, be reduced. In addition to regular gymnastic foot and leg exercises, walking up and down the aisles of the plane and drinking plenty, compression stockings also help to prevent traveler’s thromboses. This was the result of an analysis of the major studies investigating the preventative effect of compression stockings on long-haul flights (article published in Journal of Advanced Nursing, Volume 51, 2005).
Scientists from Taiwan analyzed a total of nine studies, in which more than 2500 air passengers took part. Roughly half of the passengers had worn compression stockings. Among these, only two air passengers developed a thrombosis. 46 cases of thrombosis were, however, reported among the passengers who had not worn any compression stockings. The authors conclude by saying: „The published studies suggest that compression stockings – together with other preventative measures – can prevent thromboses from forming“.
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