As the holiday season approaches, health experts are reminding the public about the significant risk of thrombosis, commonly known as blood clots, which can be life-threatening. Dr. Angie Brown, consultant cardiologist and Medical Director of the Irish Heart Foundation, emphasizes that venous thromboembolism (VTE), encompassing deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE), remains under-recognized despite affecting thousands each year. In Western populations, approximately 1 to 2 in 1,000 individuals are affected annually by venous thrombosis, with about two-thirds being DVT and one-third PE. This condition ranks as the third most common cardiovascular disease, following heart attack and stroke.

Annually, around 4,000 people die from thrombosis-related deaths. In Ireland specifically, an estimated 5,000 people are affected by VTE each year, and over one in 12 individuals are projected to experience a clot during their lifetime. Blood clots form when blood flow slows down, often due to prolonged immobility, and the risk increases with age and certain medical conditions.

Risk Factors and Triggers

Key risk factors for thrombosis include being over 60 years old, obesity, pregnancy or recent childbirth, use of estrogen-containing contraception or hormone replacement therapy, cancer, a history of previous clots, thrombophilia, recent surgery, or limited mobility. Long-distance travel, particularly journeys exceeding four to six hours by air, car, train, or ferry, also elevates the risk. Notably, immobility itself, rather than the mode of transport, is the primary issue, and many travel-related clots are preventable with straightforward measures.

Despite its prevalence, awareness of DVT remains low, with some reports indicating that a significant majority of adults have never heard of it and fewer than ten percent can identify its symptoms. Thrombosis is often underestimated because it may not present symptoms until it becomes serious, yet it is one of the most preventable causes of death and disability.

Preventing Travel-Related Thrombosis

Experts recommend several simple steps to mitigate the risk of blood clots during travel:

  • Keep Moving: Stand, stretch, or walk every one to two hours whenever possible. Simple in-seat exercises, such as ankle rotations or calf raises, can help maintain circulation. Avoiding crossing legs for extended periods is also advised.
  • Stay Hydrated: Dehydration can thicken the blood, increasing clot risk. Drinking water regularly and limiting alcohol or caffeine intake on long journeys is recommended.
  • Wear Compression Stockings: For individuals at higher risk, properly fitted compression socks can improve circulation and reduce the likelihood of clot formation.
  • Choose Seats Wisely: Opting for an aisle seat can facilitate easier movement, thereby lowering risk.
  • Understand Personal Risk: Individuals with a history of clots, recent hospitalization or surgery, or active cancer should consult their general practitioner before traveling. In some cases, preventative medication might be prescribed.

Recognizing Warning Signs

Early recognition of symptoms can be life-saving. Common signs of DVT include swelling in one leg, pain, tenderness, or warmth in the calf, and red or discolored skin. Symptoms of pulmonary embolism, which require urgent medical attention, include sudden shortness of breath, chest pain (especially when breathing), a rapid heartbeat, and coughing up blood.

Thrombosis is a leading, yet preventable, cause of illness and death. By increasing awareness and adopting simple preventive measures, many cases, particularly those linked to travel, can be avoided. The core message from health experts is to move often, stay hydrated, and be aware of individual risk factors. Seeking prompt medical help if symptoms appear during or after travel is crucial for effective treatment and better outcomes.