DVT THREAT ON SHORT FLIGHTS.Byline: LORRAINE DAVIDSON Health Correspondent AIR passengers are at risk of deep vein thrombosis A blood clot (thrombos) in a vein deep within the muscle, typically in the thigh or calf. It is caused by disease or the lack of activity such as sitting for hours at a computer screen. even on short flights, researchers warned yesterday. A study reveals potentially lethal blood clots can develop in the first two to three hours. Previously it was thought DVT See deep vein thrombosis. - so-called economy class syndrome economy class syndrome n → sÃndrome m de la clase turista economy class syndrome economy n → syndrome m de la classe économique - was only linked to cramped conditions on long-haul flights. But ultrasound tests on 568 people flying between London's Stansted airport and Italy show the danger may be much more widespread. Researchers discovered clots in 4.3 per cent of higher-risk passengers, with two going on to develop problems later. Italian expert Prof Gianni Belcaro, who is leading the study, said: "Our early research suggests most clots develop in the first two to three hours and grow larger and more dangerous with time." He said those most at risk include women on the Pill and HRT, people who have recently had surgery and mothers-to-be. Prof Belcaro advised passengers to try to exercise, avoid alcohol and drink lots of water. |
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