Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a condition involving the formation of blood clots in the legs. In susceptible individuals, prolonged periods of immobility (such as travel in an airplane, car, train, even sitting at your desk) can increase the risk of the formation of blood clots. If a clot breaks free and travels to the lungs or heart, it can be fatal. If you are concerned about your condition you should seek a consultation with a physician.

Doing a few simple exercises along with the tips below may help to decrease the risk of DVT.

• Ankle Circles: Raise your feet off the floor and rotae them in a circular motion. Make five circles in clockwise and counterclockwise directions with each foot.
• Knee-to Chest Stretch: While seated, lean slightly forward and clasp your hands around one knee. Slowly pull your knee toward your chest and hold for 15 seconds. Release and switch to the other leg. Repeat twice.
• Foot Pumps: With your heels on the floor, raise your toes as far as possible. Hold for a few seconds and lower them to the floor. Then raise your heels while keeping our toes on the floor and hold for several seconds. Repeat five times.
• Neck Roll: Relax your shoulders. Stretch your neck toward your left shoulder; hold for a few seconds, slowly roll your head toward your chest, and then stretch toward the right shoulder. Hold for several seconds and then reverse, rolling your head from right to left. Repeat three times.

Long-distance travel, exciting as it may be, can also be tiring following these tips can reduce the stress and fatigue that may occur with long-distance travel and can combat the jet lag that may result from crossing time zones;

• Wear comfortable clothing and shoes.
• Get a good night’s sleep before your trip and rest as much as possible during the flight.
• While away, get as many hours of sleep every day as you would normally at home. Taking short naps of 30 to 40 minutes will help to refresh you as you adjust to the new time zone.
• Drink plenty of water and/or juice before and during the flight to stay hydrated.
• Eat light meals during your flight. Also, avoid caffeinated and alcoholic beverages.
• Don’t remain in one position too long; peform the simple stretches above and walk when possible.