Deep vein thrombosis or DVT may be more common than previously recognized, especially among travelers. When a blood clot forms deep in a large vein, it can break loose and lodge in the lung. When that happens complications can become life threatening.
A review of 14 studies that included more than 4,000 subjects found that long trips nearly triple the likelihood of developing DVT. Long haul air travel is especially dangerous because of cramped seating and little opportunity to walk about. Patients being treated for cancer or recovering from a joint replacement as well as women on birth control pills or hormone replacement therapy are at particular risk.
[Annals of Internal Medicine, Aug 4, 2009]
