Gaurd Against Blood Clots while Traveling

06-12-2009

We all know that air travel these days can be a challenge, with long security lines and flight delays.  But many people may not know that traveling can also increase your risk of developing a dangerous blood clot, which can ultimately lead to a life-threatening condition known as a pulmonary embolism (PE)*. Even young, otherwise healthy people are at risk.

 

In fact: The estimated number of deaths from pulmonary embolism or PE is higher than the combined number of deaths from breast cancer, HIV disease, and motor vehicle crashes combined.

 

Blood clots can strike regardless of your age or family medical history. Like many others affected each year, Aamir Husain was an active, fit, HEALTHY man in his 30s who frequently traveled around the world for work.  After taking a routine flight, Aamir experienced severe pain, which he initially ignored as just a sign of stress or cramps.  Luckily Aamir heeded warnings from his doctor to undergo additional testing.  The source of the pain?...A life-threatening pulmonary embolism, brought on by a blood clot formed during travel.

 

Why are travelers at risk? Prolonged immobility during trips can lead to the formation of unnecessary blood clots – and in some cases, a clot may travel into the lung where it becomes lodged and prevents blood flow. This is what’s known as a pulmonary embolism (PE). The good news is that blood clots are highly preventable if you recognize the risk factors and take simple steps to promote good circulation while traveling.

 

That’s why the American Society of Hematology (ASH) is reaching out to educate people about the clotting risks associated with travel and spreading the word about easy prevention measures.

 

We hope to work with you on a travel and health feature this summer. The American Society of Hematology has several resources for you and your readers:

 

·         Patient testimony –  Aamir Husain, age 38, is an active, fit man who frequently travels the world for his work.  One day he woke up in excruciating pain.  Though Aamir insisted it was nothing more than stress, his doctors insisted on further testing.  They discovered Aamir had a pulmonary embolism brought on by a blood clot.

·         Expert insight – Dr. Andrew Schafer is a hematologist, expert on deep vein thrombosis (DVT)* and PE, past President of the American Society of Hematology, a featured doctor in the documentary video “Blood Detectives,” and the doctor responsible for treating Aamir (above).

·         “Blood Detectives” – A documentary blood video that premiered on Discovery Health in December 2008. The piece provides real stories of patients with blood diseases – and highlights their experience going through treatment as well as advice from hematologists that understand the disease.   (Aamir, above, is one of the stories featured in this documentary.)

·         www.BloodtheVitalConnection.org – Offers patients more information on the signs and symptoms of blood clotting (how to recognize a blood clot, how to prevent blood clots, how to talk to your doctor if you are at risk).

·         Easy tips for consumers to detect and help prevent blood clots.

 

Guard Against Blood Clots While Traveling

 

There are simple steps people can take to help prevent blood clots from forming while flying. Here are just some of the tips that the American Society of Hematology (ASH) offers to prevent blood clots:

-              Walk around the plane every few hours.

-              Drink lots of fluids.

-              Wear loose clothing.

-              Avoid drinking alcohol before and during travel.

-              Store carry-on luggage overhead to give yourself leg room.

 

Blood clot warning signs include sudden pain, redness or discoloration, skin that feels unusually warm and swelling of the leg, ankle or calf. Signs of PE include chest pain and shortness of breath.  Anyone experiencing these symptoms should immediately contact a doctor.

               

Did you know?: Women taking oral contraceptives have a higher risk of developing clots, as do pregnant women, smokers, seniors and obese individuals.  Click here[Back to Press Releases Main]