Taking a flight isn’t always as convenient as travelling by road. While air travel surely reduces the duration of the journey, certain flights can still feel like an eternity. Unless you’re flying first class, you’re likely to be confined to a small, cramped seat, where stretching or frequently moving your legs may not be an option. Many people also sit cross-legged for comfort, but that doesn't last too. And for those with poor circulation, this position can sometimes lead to complications.
Dr Sandeep Agarwal, Vice-Chairperson and Senior Consultant – Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, Gangaram Hospital, New Delhi, addresses common concerns about prolonged seating during long flights, its impact on blood circulation, and the risk it poses.
Also Read: Feet Swelling While Travelling: When Should You Be Concerned?
Does Crossing Legs On A Plane Affect Blood Circulation?
Crossing your legs for a long period of time can restrict blood flow, particularly in the veins behind the knee (popliteal region), explains Dr Agarwal, adding that sitting still in one position, especially with legs crossed, can lead to blood stagnation, increasing the risk of Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT).
DVT occurs when a blood clot forms in the deep veins of the leg, causing swelling and pain. In severe cases, the clot can travel to the lungs, leading to a life-threatening condition called pulmonary embolism.
According to the American Society of Haematology, the longer the flight, the more at risk a person is of developing a clot. Flights lasting 8-10 hours or longer pose the greatest risk.
A 2007 review published in the Journal of Internal Medicine found that the risk of a serious pulmonary embolism is higher on longer flights, with up to 4.8 cases per million on flights over 12 hours.
What Is Deep Vein Thrombosis?
DVT is a condition where a blood clot forms in a deep vein, usually in the leg. Dr Agarwal explains that it occurs when blood flow is restricted or slowed, often due to prolonged immobility, such as after major surgeries, long hospital stays, or extended travel.
Cancer patients, especially those undergoing chemotherapy, are also at a higher risk because cancer and certain treatments can make the blood more prone to clotting.
Who Is Most At Risk?
Certain individuals are more prone to DVT and need to be extra cautious during long flights. These include:
- Older adults
- Frail individuals
- Obese individuals, particularly obese women
- People with a sedentary lifestyle or those who don’t exercise regularly
- Smokers and individuals with poor dietary habits (high-fat, fried foods)
- Cancer patients, especially those on chemotherapy
For such individuals, taking extra precautions like regular movement, staying hydrated, and wearing compression stockings is particularly important.
Also Read: Deep Vein Thrombosis Vs Pulmonary Embolism: Experts Share Key Differences
How To Prevent Poor Blood Circulation On Long Flights
To reduce the risk of DVT during long flights, Dr Agarwal recommends:
Frequent movement: Get up and walk in the aisle every 30-60 minutes.
Foot exercises: While seated, move your toes, rotate your ankles, and lift your heels.
Hydration: Drink plenty of water; lukewarm water is even better. Avoid alcohol and caffeinated beverages, which can cause dehydration.
Compression stockings: Wearing elastic compression stockings can help improve blood circulation and reduce the risk of clots.
Conclusion
While you may prefer taking a flight to your destination, it isn’t advised if you are at risk of DVT. It is also best to avoid sitting cross-legged for prolonged periods, especially while on a plane. Although DVT mostly resolves on its own, in severe cases, it may cause pain and swelling and can break off and travel to the blood vessels of your lungs, causing pulmonary embolism. Hence, consulting a doctor beforehand is highly advised.