November 28, 2025
The holiday season is a time for celebration and connecting with loved ones. For many, this means traveling by car or plane to be with family and friends. As you make your lists (and check them twice), it’s essential to include health management on that checklist, especially for potential DVT risks while traveling. Deep Vein Thrombosis, or DVT, is a serious condition where a blood clot forms in a deep vein, usually in the legs. Long periods of inactivity can increase this risk. Here’s what you should know if you’re traveling for the holidays to protect yourself or your loved ones.
A blood clot in a deep vein can be dangerous on its own, but the greatest threat comes if a piece of the clot breaks off and travels to the lungs, causing a pulmonary embolism. This is a life-threatening medical emergency. Recognizing the symptoms of DVT is the first step in protecting yourself. While some people may not experience any symptoms, common signs include:
Being aware of these symptoms and understanding blood clot risks while traveling can help you recognize when to take swift action if needed.
Holiday travel often involves sitting for extended periods, which slows blood flow in your legs and increases the risk of DVT. To stay safe, follow a simple health checklist to minimize these risks and ensure your travels are both happy and healthy. From staying hydrated to stretching regularly, these steps can help reduce DVT risks while traveling so your holiday plans stay on track.
Movement is your best defense. If you’re driving, plan to stop every one to two hours to get out of the car, stretch your legs, and walk around for a few minutes. If you’re flying, take advantage of opportunities to move about the cabin when it is safe to do so. Even small movements in your seat can make a significant difference.
Try these simple exercises:
Dehydration can cause your blood vessels to narrow and your blood to thicken, increasing the risk of clotting. Drink plenty of water as you travel and avoid excessive alcohol or caffeine, which can contribute to dehydration. Wearing loose-fitting, comfortable clothing can also promote better circulation.
For individuals with known risk factors, compression stockings can be an excellent tool. These specially designed stockings apply gentle pressure to your legs, helping to keep blood flowing and reducing the DVT risks while traveling. A physician can recommend the right type, such as knee-high or full-length, and pressure level for your specific needs.
While these tips are helpful for everyone, some individuals have a higher risk of developing DVT. Factors like age, a family history of blood clots, recent surgery, certain medical conditions, and pregnancy can increase your susceptibility.
If you have concerns, consulting with a cardiovascular specialist is an important step.
Proactive care, such as deep vein thrombosis screenings, can provide a comprehensive assessment of your vein health and personal risk factors. Our experienced physicians at Cardiovascular Institute of the South evaluate each patient on a case-by-case basis to determine the best course of preventative care and treatment.
Don’t let worries about your cardiovascular health overshadow your holiday season. By taking these proactive steps, you can significantly reduce DVT risks and focus on making memories with the people you love.
If you want to stay on top of your cardiovascular health or are concerned about DVT, we encourage you to get in touch with our dedicated professionals. The team at Cardiovascular Institute of the South is here to provide expert guidance and peace of mind. You can request an appointment online or call your closest clinic today to schedule a consultation.