It is still the season of warmth and sunshine—summertime—and so many people are heading out on vacation. Whether you’re flying or driving, you may end up sitting for a long time. Deep vein thrombosis or DVT is a blood clot that can form in your veins leading to pain, swelling, serious complications and even death.

Though DVT is more common in people with a history of blood clots or those who have recently had surgery in the lower half of their body, it can potentially happen to anyone. Also, the elderly or those who are overweight have a higher potential for these dangerous blood clots. Regardless of your risk level, it increases when you sit for long periods of time such as while driving or flying. The following are some tips to help prevent DVT while traveling this summer.

  1. Rotate your ankles often every hour.
  2. Wear loose, comfortable clothing, especially on the lower half of your body.
  3. Wear socks or hose that help increase circulation; these are often provided by a pharmacy or doctor.
  4. Drink lots of water. It’s important to stay hydrated.
  5. Avoid caffeine and alcohol.
  6. Stretch during your trip: flex your toes, roll your ankles, lift your legs off the ground for a minute and hold, stretch your legs as far in front of you as you can, gently shake your legs, rise up off your seat for a few seconds to take pressure off your backside.
  7. If you are flying, when possible, stand up and walk around for a couple minutes each hour.
  8. If you are driving, stop once every two hours to stand and stretch. Walk around a wayside rest or gas station to relieve pressure build-up.

What many don’t realize is that DVT can occur if you sit for long periods of time in your day to day life as well. If you work at a desk or have a job that requires you to be in a chair, make sure you are following the above steps as well. Get up at least once an hour and walk around your office or do simple stretches at your desk. Also, while watching a movie or reading a book, follow the stretching suggestions.

Another way to help prevent DVT if you are prone to blood clots is to use oral chelation therapy. Chelation therapy helps your blood flow freely, which in turn delivers rich nutrients and oxygen throughout your body. For more information on oral chelation products, call Cardio Renew toll free at 800-578-1215 or submit your information through the online contact us form.