DVT - What are the OHS risks?
Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) is the formation of a blood clot in a deep vein, most commonly in the legs. The clots can travel to the heart, lungs or brain, causing chest pain, breathlessness or possible death from a heart attack or stroke.
Long distance air travel
Current medical evidence suggests long distance air travel may contribute to the development of DVT. This is not a new problem, but recent publicity about the "Economy Class Syndrome" and the death of a number of long distance travellers from DVT following flights between Australia, the UK and the USA, have highlighted the danger of long distance travel by air.
Some travellers are more at risk than others and need to take extra care.
DVT is more common if the person:
- is travelling for more than 12 continuous hours (particularly by air because of the combination of reduced oxygen pressure and dehydration)
- is over the age of 40
- is obese
- smokes
- is pregnant or taking a contraceptive pill
- has severe varicose veins
- has an inflammatory disease (e.g. rheumatoid arthritis or inflammatory bowel disease)
- has a past history of DVT
- has a family history of DVT
- has had recent surgery or a plaster cast.
Those at high risk should seek medical advice before travelling on long flights.
In the office
There is also emerging evidence that workers who spend hours on end at their desks without standing or walking are also potentially prone to DVT.