Choosing the proper seat for a long plane flight can help protect you from a serious health problem but that seat may not be where you'd expect.
Some people use the term "economy class syndrome" to describe a condition called deep vein thrombosis. These are blood clots that can develop in the legs during long flights. The clots may travel to the lungs, which can be deadly.
But according to new guidelines for preventing this problem, traveling in economy class hasn't been proven to put you at risk. Rather, sitting by the windows or sitting still on long flights can make these clots more likely.
In their guidelines, the American College of Chest Physicians (ACCP) offers advice for people who are at higher risk of these clots. This includes people who've had these clots before, women who are pregnant or taking estrogen, people with cancer, older folks, and people who are severely obese. These people should:
Sit in an aisle seat if possible.Get up and move around frequentlyDo calf exercises, such as flexing and stretching the calf musclesAnd wear snug compression stockings on the lower legs.And remember long trips by car, bus, or train may also increase your risk of these clots.
I'm Dr. Cindy Haines of HealthDay TV, with the news that doctors are reading; health news that matters to you.
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