Wednesday, September 28, 2005

PSA: Deep vein thrombosis

There's a summary on Google worth reading about Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT), especially if you fly a lot, or if you're flying shortly after a big race. It says, in part:
Often there are no symptoms until several days after the flight, and the DVT may be mistaken for a cramp. Symptoms may include:
  • Sudden swelling in one leg (a little swelling in both legs is usually
    normal)
  • Cramp or tenderness in one lower leg
  • Bruise or swelling behind a knee

If you're thinking this doesn't happen to healthy road warriors, you'd be wrong. Being athletic is a major risk factor, because the slower pulse and resting blood flow rate may lead to increased stasis.

6 comments:

Dr. Iron TriFeist :) said...

Oh great, if I escape my weight I have this to look forward to. Doesn't inspire me to be more athletic, I'll tell ya!

Recovering Alumni said...

Thanks for keeping us up to date with this kind of information!

:) said...

There's some even scarier photos if you google-image "deep vein thrombosis"...

Ick!

Born To Endure said...

I know, I know...I have been worried about this bigtime!! I even went to my Dr. and discussed this with her...she's not concerned in the least bit. She told me just to make sure I drink alot..ha ha..and get up and move around the cabin...so that's what i'll do!!

Vertical Man said...

i wonder if joining the "mile high club" helps any...

Nancy Toby said...

I hadn't thought of that. Check with Lance, who says he's a member...