Deep Vein Thrombosis

Causes Of Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)

DVT occurs when the flow of blood is restricted in a vein, and a clot forms. It can be caused by poor circulation because of problems such as heart disease, a recent heart attack or stroke, varicose veins, or from inactivity or prolonged bed rest. DVT may develop during a long flight and has been dubbed 'economy class syndrome' because the cheaper seats in a plane have less leg room, encouraging minimal movement. However, it is not confined to economy class or to long haul flights. DVT can be caused by a narrowed or blocked vein in which blood gathers and clots. This can be brought on by an injury to the vein (such as a sharp blow to the leg), or following surgery or radiation therapy (cancer- killing X- rays). In addition, DVT can occur during pregnancy as there is then an increased tendency for the blood to form clots (this is a natural mechanism to prevent excessive bleeding during child- birth). DVT can also occur as the result of severe infection, liver disease and some cancers.

DVT is more common in the elderly and the very overweight, but healthy young people can develop it as well. Some people are not born with vital 'blood thinning' substances and are therefore always more susceptible to blood clots. Some medicines, such as the contraceptive pill and HRT, can marginally increase the risk of developing DVT.

Although anyone can develop DVT on a flight, certain people are more vulnerable, including pregnant women, people who are overweight, those whose feet don't reach the floor (because the seat puts more pressure on the backs of their legs), the elderly, smokers and those with coronary artery diseases and certain blood conditions.

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