Infographic: Educate patients about holiday travel and blood clots
Millions of travelers this season will endure extended trips in cars, buses, trains and planes with cramped leg space. Share these tips on how to prevent blood clots that could be fatal.
By Susan Young | Posted: November 29, 2018
As many as 100,000 people a year die from blood clots, a condition that can be prevented.
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has a number of tips for those traveling this holiday season. The good news for communicators is that the information is relevant year-round.
Blood clots, or deep vein thrombosis (DVT), can form in veins that run below the surface and aren’t visible through the skin. The CDC says being immobile for long periods of time increases the risk of developing a clot. Though many DVTs dissolve on their own, health dangers arise if part of the blood clot breaks off and travels to the lungs. The blockage—or pulmonary embolism—can be fatal, according to the CDC.
What can travelers do to prevent this condition? The CDC advises people who sit during long excursions (more than four hours), to:
• Move legs frequently and walk around every two to three hours.
• Drink water to stay hydrated.
• Avoid alcoholic beverages during air travel.
This infographic can be useful to health care communicators throughout the year.
(Image via)