As the summer months get underway, many people envision their perfect vacation destinations. However, a relaxing vacation can be ruined if one develops "deep vein thrombosis" or DVT. DVT is so commonly linked to travel that it is frequently referred to as "traveler's thrombosis." It develops when an individual remains in a stationary position for a prolonged period of time.
DVT affects approximately two million Americans each year, and of those, 660,000 develop pulmonary embolism, a life-threatening condition that can induce a heart attack or a stroke. Pulmonary embolisms form when a clot travels to the lungs, chest cavity or other area. Sixty thousand die each year, usually from complications of DVT and pulmonary embolisms.
"DVT is caused by blood clots that form in a vein deep within the body after blood becomes stagnant and pools," said Michael Brown, MD, FCAP, a pathologist from Billings, Mont. "Blood begins to pool after extended periods of inactivity in cases such as air travel, car, train or bus trips. DVT can also occur during inactivity because of bed rest after surgery, pregnancy and sitting at a desk for a long time without stretching."
The most common symptoms of DVT include:
- Warmth
- Tenderness
- Pain
- Swelling
- Fever or cough
Through a blood analysis, a pathologist -- a physician who diagnoses patients through laboratory medicine -- can determine whether a blood clot that causes DVT is present.
"People should take precautions when traveling, such as going for short walks, stretching and keeping the legs moving," Dr. Brown said. "Although it can be difficult to move around in a confined space or to take time for a break, it may end up saving your life."
The College of American Pathologists recommends these other precautionary tips:
- Eat a light meal
- Drink a non-alcoholic beverage
- Wear support stockings
- Take an aspirin to act as a blood thinner.
Adequate food and drink prevent dehydration, increasing the blood volume to help keep circulation going. Wearing support stockings increase circulation. Aspirin thins the blood, helping to prevent clots.
The College of American Pathologists is a medical society that serves nearly 16,000 physician members and the laboratory community throughout the world. It is the world's largest association composed exclusively of pathologists and is widely considered the leader in laboratory quality assurance. The College is an advocate for high-quality and cost-effective medical care.
