Swelling in any part of the body can be alarming, especially when you do not know the exact cause. It can be even more puzzling if it occurs only during certain circumstances, for instance, travelling. Yes, you heard that right! Some people develop swollen legs and feet when they travel, regardless of the mode of transportation (car, bus, or by air). For those wondering why, we spoke to Dr Achintya Sharma, Consultant, Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, Max Super Speciality Hospital, Shalimar Bagh, to not only understand the causes but also know when they can be concerning and the measures to take. Keep reading to find out.
Also Read: How Fluid Retention Affects Different Parts Of The Body: Noticeable Symptoms
What Causes Swelling In The Feet While Travelling?
Travelling can be exciting but taxing at the same time, especially when you have to remain seated at one place for long hours.
“Sitting for extended periods, such as during long flights or car rides, can cause fluid to pool in the feet and ankles due to decreased circulation,” says Dr Sharma. This is one of the primary causes of swollen feet while travelling.
Other reasons include:
- Lack of movement during travel can impair the function of the muscles that help pump blood back to the heart, leading to fluid accumulation in the lower extremities.
- Travelling to higher altitudes can sometimes result in fluid retention due to changes in air pressure and oxygen levels.
- Not drinking enough water during travel can exacerbate fluid retention, as the body may hold onto fluids in response to dehydration.
- Wearing tight clothing or shoes, especially over long periods, can restrict blood flow and contribute to swelling.
- Certain pre-existing medical conditions, such as venous insufficiency or Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT), can increase the risk of swelling during travel.
Could It Be Deep Vein Thrombosis?
Dr Sharma says, “DVT occurs when a blood clot forms in a deep vein, typically in the leg, obstructing blood flow and leading to swelling and other complications.”
According to him, this condition is a leading risk factor for swollen feet and legs while travelling.
Therefore, it is important to diagnose the condition early and get it treated on time.
Other than swelling in the legs and feet, it is also crucial to watch out for other common symptoms associated with DVT. These include:
- Swelling, often in one leg or foot. The affected limb may feel noticeably larger or heavier than the others.
- Pain or tenderness in the affected area, which may feel like cramping or soreness, especially when standing or walking.
- The skin over the affected area might feel warm to the touch compared to the surrounding skin.
- Skin discolouration, such as redness or darkening, may occur, particularly around the site of the clot.
- Veins in the affected leg might become more prominent or visible.
- DVT can cause difficulty or pain when walking, particularly if the clot is large or located in a deep vein.
While the exact occurrence of DVT is unknown, estimates suggest roughly 80 cases per 100,000 individuals are diagnosed annually, according to StatPearls Publishing.
Research further notes that throughout a person's lifetime, the risk of DVT is 1 in 20, with the United States alone responsible for around 600,000 hospitalisation cases each year.
Note: While swollen feet alone may not always indicate DVT, it's essential to be aware of other symptoms and risk factors, such as recent surgery, prolonged immobility, or a personal or family history of blood clots.
Also Read: Dealing With Swollen Feet? Try These Natural Remedies For Relief
When Should You Be Concerned?
Dr Sharma says, “Swelling in the feet can sometimes be a cause for concern, especially if it is persistent, severe, or accompanied by other symptoms such as pain, warmth, redness, or difficulty breathing.”
However, she adds, “If there are concerns about DVT, it's crucial to seek medical attention promptly for proper evaluation and treatment as it can lead to pulmonary embolism,” which occurs when a blood clot gets stuck in an artery in the lung, blocking blood flow to part of the lung.
How To Manage Feet Or Leg Swelling While Travelling?
Sharing a few ways to manage leg or foot swelling while travelling, Dr Sharma lists:
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
- Avoid excessive alcohol and caffeine consumption while travelling, as they can contribute to dehydration.
- Take regular breaks to stretch and move around during travel.
- Wear loose-fitting clothing and comfortable shoes.
- Elevate the legs when possible.
- Consider wearing compression socks or stockings to promote circulation.
Conclusion
Swelling in the legs or feet while travelling is usually harmless and subsides on its own, sometimes even without treatment. However, if it’s persistent, painful, and accompanied by other symptoms like redness or shortness of breath, one must seek immediate medical assistance. Even though you are used to having swollen feet while travelling, it is advised to get yourself examined by a doctor to rule out any possibilities of DVT, which, if left untreated, can cause various complications.