Have you questioned if you should fly while having varicose veins? How about how you should prevent DVT? Don’t worry, Dr. Hansen has the answers to these questions below.
Q: Can I take a 12-hour flight if I have varicose veins? What should I do to prevent DVT?
A: It is absolutely ok if you take a long flight even with varicose veins. Varicose veins do increase your risk of a DVT but just slightly. The best way to avoid developing a DVT on the flight is to make sure to stay well hydrated by drinking a lot of water, getting up and walking whenever possible, pump your foot up and down when not able to walk and avoid drinking alcohol as it will dehydrate you. I would also recommend that you wear 20-30mmhg graduated compression stockings while you are on the flight.
Follow up with a board-certified phlebologist when you return from your trip.
These questions were answered by our board-certified physician, Dr. Hansen, MD, DABVLM, RPhS. You can find Dr. Hansen in our Sioux Falls, SD; Watertown, SD; and Moorhead, MN vein clinics.
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