TRAVELLERS CLOTS (Deep Vein Thrombosis DVT)

Varicose Veins :: Travellers Clots DVT
Spider Veins :: Superficial Thromboplebitis

Also known as “Economy class syndrome”. This is a bad term as they can occur in first class, in buses, or in fact any prolonged travel over 4hrs. Travel is not the only factor, as they can occur with prolonged squatting as with gardening. They also can occur after any surgery, although some operations are more of a concern than others. In fact, there is probably more leg movement in economy class as the seating is so uncomfortable. There are also recognized risk factors (see below).

These clots are in the veins deep inside the leg, and are known as Deep Vein Thrombosus (DVT). They are potentially lethal, as they can break off and travel along with the blood stream and lodge in the lungs. Most patients survive however.

It is not known whether travelers clots differ from post-operative clots. Walking and compression knee length stockings are the only proven beneficial factors. Although unproven, drinking lots of fluids to prevent dehydration might help and makes sense.

We have special sox available that have graded sequential pressures so that they act as pumps to minimize blood stagnating in the legs.

Risk factors for DVT
Previous DVT
Recent surgery
Recent trauma to the leg
Family history of DVT
Oral contraceptives
Known hereditary clotting tendencies

SUPERFICIAL THROMBOPHLEBITIS

This describes a condition where a vein under the skin becomes inflamed and develops a small clot. The inflammation prevents the clot from moving, so they are by themselves not dangerous. A leg vein becomes red, swollen, lumpy, and very tender. If you develop a superficial thrombophlebitis, see your doctor immediately, as he or she can evacuate the clot under local anaesthetic giving instant relief and a speedy recovery. This can only be done within 48hrs of onset of symptoms. Otherwise it will take weeks and weeks to recover.

If you have recurrent superficial thrombophlebitis, you need an urgent duplex ultrasound of both legs as there is an associated risk of a DVT.