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Facts
About Economy Class Syndrome (ECS) and Deep Vein Thrombosis
(DVT)
- "Economy
Class Syndrome" (ECS) is the term associated with a serious
condition called deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Crowded, cramped
conditions and limited physical activity during extended
air travel may increase the risks for DVT.
- ECS
got its name from the inactivity associated with air travel,
particularly in cramped coach seating.
- During
prolonged periods of inactivity, the effects of gravity
make it difficult for the blood in the veins of the legs
to return to the heart. Activity of the calf muscles is
needed to contract and pump blood up the legs. Without this
activity, blood can pool in the legs, causing swelling and
discomfort and may develop into a blood clot in a deep vein
– deep vein thrombosis.
- When
normal activity resumes, the blood clot can break off and
form an embolism that can pass to the heart or lungs, obstruct
the pulmonary arteries, and lead to death.
- Development
of thrombi during extended air travel has been documented
throughout the past 40 years. Air travelers, including Richard
Nixon in 1972, have experienced the effects of these conditions
after flying.
- Although
DVT can strike individuals who are in good health with relatively
little warning, there are people who are at greater risk
for developing the condition. Obesity, pregnancy, chronic
heart disease, use of hormone medications, malignancies,
history of blood clots, varicose veins, and recent trauma
or surgery may increase a person's risk for DVT. 1
Travelers should ask a physician if they are predisposed
to any risk factors for DVT.
- DVT
is not only associated with long flights. This condition
may also be linked with activities or occupations that involve
long periods of passive sitting.1
- To
reduce the risk for DVT while traveling, physicians recommend
wearing gradient compression hosiery to improve blood circulation
in the legs in conjunction with foot/ankle exercises and
walking.
- Jobst
is the number one physician-recommended brand of gradient
compression hosiery in the United States.
1DVT
'hits all travel.' The Mirror, United Kingdom, March 14, 2001
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