Hidden Hazard of the Road

As a traveler you're familiar with the usual hazards of life on the road such as rain, ice and fire, but did you know that sitting for long periods can also be hazardous? Studies show that an extended duration of immobility can lead to a condition called Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT). When a person sits or lies still for a prolonged period of time, blood thickens, which can lead to clots in the veins.

Statistics show, approximately two million people, and possibly more, are afflicted each year--particularly, people over the age of forty, women taking estrogen, those with varicose veins, those with family history of blood clots or DVT, pregnant women and anyone recovering from recent surgery or a condition that required they be immobile for any period longer than a day.

Medical research shows that about half of people afflicted with DVT experience no symptoms. The other half sometimes experience a swelling and warming in the tissues of the legs, a sore tenderness in the veins of the legs and/or pain when standing or walking. These symptoms can occur up to two weeks after a long drive or period of immobility. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, see a doctor as soon as you possibly can.

In more extreme cases of blood clots in the lungs or other vital areas, symptoms may include shortness of breath and/or chest pain. If you experience these signs, call 911 immediately. Waiting to see a doctor can cause the condition to worsen and put your health at serious risk.

Fortunately, blood clots are highly treatable once detected. If diagnosed, your doctor will likely prescribe an "anti-coagulant," or blood thinner, to break up any clots that may be forming. If you have a serious incident, a hospital stay will probably be on the agenda.

While this condition can be very dangerous, by being aware of it and taking some simple precautions, it is easily preventable.

• Drink plenty of fluids. Dehydration can cause a thickening of the blood and a higher risk of blood clots.
• Avoid caffeinated drinks and smoking--these can also contribute to thickening of the blood.
• Avoid crossing legs when seated
• Wear loose-fitting and comfortable clothing when you know you'll be driving a long distance.
• Taking aspirin may help thin the blood and counteract clotting. Consult your doctor to ensure that taking aspirin for this purpose is recommended.
• If you are concerned or your doctor has assessed you are at risk for DVT, you can purchase special stockings called compression or anti-embolic stockings; these are often covered by medical insurance. The stockings assist the natural function of your veins by offering mild graduated compression, improving the return of blood to the heart.
• Most importantly, get up and move around for a few minutes every two hours or so. If it's not possible to stand and move around, see Figure 1 for some in-your-seat exercises for RV passengers and the driver when the RV is parked. (Courtesy of United Airlines)

Because being out of your seat belt while the vehicle is moving is a safety hazard, stop the vehicle when you need to move around. If you have the option, share the driving responsibilities with your traveling companion. Driving doesn't leave much room to move, so stop at roadside attractions or rest areas and stretch or switch drivers every two to three hours. Making a routine out of stopping regularly for a little exercise can keep you healthy and make your trip more enjoyable.

In-your-seat exercises
Thanks to United Airlines for supplying these pictures and exercises.
Illustrations by David Navascues

Lift your knee as far as you can up to your chest. Repeat with other knee.

Straighten knee, increasing the amount of joint space at the back of the knee to its full range. Repeat with other leg.

With your heel resting on the floor, point your toes upward. Repeat with other foot.

With your toes resting on the floor, lift your heel upward. Repeat with other foot.

With the ball of your foot on the floor, gently swing your heel out, rotating on the ball of your foot so your toes are pointing toward each other. Do this with both feet at the same time or one at a time.

Reverse the last exercise. Leaving the ball of your foot on the floor and gently swing your heel inward leaving your toes pointing away from each other.