Avoiding Blood Clots When Flying

By WKBW News

February 7, 2012 Updated Feb 7, 2012 at 8:56 PM EDT


(WKBW/ABC News) Those who fly economy class often worry about it. It's the risk of getting a blood clot sitting in cramped seats, especially on long flights.

It's a condition that could cause death, but new research says the fear isn't necessarily justified.

According to a study by the American College of Chest Physicians,
the quality of your seating during a flight does not
increase your chances of developing a deadly blood clot, but where you sit in the plane might!

Researchers say flying long-distance while sitting in a window seat increases your chances of getting a blood clot because people sitting by the window are more likely to stay in their seats.

That limited mobility will increase the risk of developing a
deep vein blood clot.

To reduce your risk of developing a blood clot on a long flight, experts
recommend you buy compression stockings, drink plenty of fluids and
avoid wearing tight, short socks, but no matter where you sit on the plane, they say it's a good idea to get up and stretch your legs.