At a glance
What travellers should know
- Risk increases with flight length and personal risk factors
- Moving regularly during the flight is the most important prevention
- Compression stockings may be recommended for higher-risk travellers
Reducing your risk
Walk around the cabin periodically, do simple seated leg exercises, stay hydrated, and avoid excessive alcohol during the flight.
If you have personal risk factors — such as a previous clot, recent surgery, pregnancy or certain medical conditions — mention this to your pharmacist, as compression stockings or other measures may be recommended.
If you feel seriously unwell
- Swelling, pain or redness in one leg, or breathlessness and chest pain after a flight — seek urgent medical attention
Common questions
Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) & Flying FAQs
Not necessarily — this depends on your personal risk factors. Your pharmacist can help assess whether they're worth considering for you.