LinkVETS - The Veterans Resource Network

It's summer and everyone is on the move. Except when we are trapped on a long flight or playing "eye spy" in the mini-van en route to Grandma's or the shore.

A new study in the Annals of Internal Medicine warns about the risk of a condition called venous thromboembolism or VTE. VTE is the formation of a blood clot in the deep veins of the leg or pelvis, and if the clot breaks loose and travels to the heart or lungs, can be fatal. Symptoms include swelling, pain, and redness in the leg.

VTE is very rare, but risk increases considerably during flights or car rides longer than a few hours. Those most at risk are people who are obese, have chronic illness, or take medicines containing estrogen.

To prevent VTE, it's important to remain hydrated by drinking water, flexing your calf muscles, and walking around if possible. Avoid alcohol and coffee because they can dehydrate you.

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