Cathay Pacific - What's Onboard : In-Flight Health > DVT

Cathay Pacific - What's Onboard : In-Flight Health > DVT

Can I do anything to reduce my risk of getting DVT while travelling by air?
Yes. As two of the major causes are immobility and dehydration, you can do quite a lot to reduce these, and hence minimize your risk of getting DVT. Some suggestions are:
Avoid commencing an air journey in a dehydrated state (eg after drinking a lot of alcohol, having a hangover or being exposed to very hot weather for long periods).
Drink a lot of water and juices during the flight.
Drink coffee, tea and alcohol only in moderation as these are diuretics and may cause the body to dehydrate.
Move your legs and feet for 3 or 4 minutes per hour while in your seat to get the muscle pump working and avoid stasis. The Inflight Workout provides suggestions of some exercises that you can follow.
Do some stretching exercises when waiting to use the washroom.
Avoid wearing tight clothing around the upper thighs and body.