With the high air travel season approaching I want to relate my story of what I experienced from flying to Italy about 8 years ago. I post this from time to time so that others are aware.
I had read the stories abut the possibility of getting a blood clot when on a long flight. I was 55 so I took precautions. I got up and walked around the cabin and did a few knee bends as well. I even had an aisle seat so I could occasional stretch my legs for a minute off and on. All went well, I returned home and went back to work 2 days later. That day I felt a sharp jabbing pain below my right arm pit. What is that? Then the next day it was gone but now in my neck! What's this? So, I went to the doctor. After I told him about recently being over the pond, he order an MRI at the hospital. I was sitting in the wait room when a nurse appeared and said, "Your doctor is on the phone and wants to speak to you!" GULP!! I was told i had 7 blood clots in my lungs and was being admitted. I spent the next 3 days having blood thinner pumped thru me. After release I took Warfin for another 6 weeks. I admit i was pretty dumb about the dangers of clots, I just knew they were something to avoid. I now know I was one lucky person.
So, have I flown since? You bet. I have had long flights since, but... here is my advise... see your doctor before going on a long flight. In my case, I was advised to take 2 aspirins a day for a week 2 weeks prior to flying, then one a day for one week prior and also one a day while there, plus wear compression socks when flying and get up and walk around. I've done that and have had no further problem. I now do this for long domestic flights as well.
That's my story. Be careful, be aware and be well.