Can you take aspirin? Compression hose is essential. Frequent leg motion is essential as well. As long as you have on compression hose and get up frequently to move your legs or, at the very least, perform leg exercises based on the instructions supplied in flight manuals, you should be OK during the flight. If the compression stocking stops right where the blood clot is, you might benefit from compression hose that sit higher up on the leg, away from the clot.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

You are in a difficult situation. Firstly, you need to be in a thigh-length stocking and should be measured and fitted by an experienced fitter. These should be non-constrictive around the knees and ankles. If you cannot take a 81 mg Aspirin, you should talk to your doctors about a blood thinner and/or testing your clotting factors as to why you have these clots. If there is not time, wear the long hose, drink a lot of fluids, get up and walk often and do the exercises in the seat pocket magazine. Do not wear constrictive clothing around the waist or abdomen.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

I would make sure that you have an ultrasound to ensure there are no deep vein clots. I would consider talking to your physician about a blood thinner to take prior to flying. Flights over 6 hours are associated with an increased risk of blood clots. Try to postpone your trip if possible. If you must go, then wear compression hose that go above the area (e.g. thigh-highs), stay hydrated with non-alcoholic beverages and walk or move legs frequently on the flight. Still speak to your physician prior to this long flight.

Published on Jul 11, 2012