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Are You Putting Your Health at Risk When You Fly? Protect Your Veins and Circulation with These Simple Steps

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You’re excited about your next trip. Whether it’s for business or pleasure, air travel opens doors to new experiences. But you may not realize that your travel habits could put your health at risk—especially your circulation. And what you don’t know can hurt you. So take a moment to learn how to enjoy your next adventure without unexpected health consequences in this travel advisory for healthy circulation from our vein specialists.

Many fly these days without realizing how prolonged sitting and lack of movement affect your circulation. Recently there has even been a social media trend we will call ‘flying without support‘ which goes against basic precautions we should all take with air travel. This trend can lead to serious health consequences, including worsening varicose veins, leg swelling, and even dangerous blood clots in your deep and superficial veins.

At Vein Specialists of the South, we’ve seen the effects of flying without support too often. We do not want you to overlook the impact air travel and recent social media trends can have on your health. The good news? You can protect yourself by taking just a few simple steps before and during your flight.

Travel Advisory for Healthy Circulation

The Problem: Air Travel Can Lead to Severe Health Consequences

Most people don’t realize how air travel affects your venous circulation and the return of the blood from your legs to your heart. When you sit for long periods during a flight, especially without getting up to move, your venous blood flow slows causing blood to pool in your legs, increasing the risk of:

Varicose veins: Those unsightly and painful bulging leg veins are not just a cosmetic concern. They indicate poor circulation which can be exacerbated with flying.
Leg swelling: Long flights often result in swollen legs and feet, a clear sign that blood and lymph aren’t circulating properly.
Deep (DVT) and Superficial Vein Thrombosis (SVT): If you have underlying vein problems the risk of blood clots is increased. If left untreated, they can lead to a life-threatening pulmonary embolism.

Essentially, if you’re following this latest travel trend of sitting still without movement, food, water, or circulation support, you’re putting your health at risk!

BETTER VEINS.
BETTER LIFE.^® PLAN

It’s just 3 easy steps…

SCHEDULE A CONSULTATION

HAVE YOUR LEGS EVALUATED

ENJOY BETTER LOOKING BETTER FEELING LEGS

SCHEDULE A CONSULTATION

HAVE YOUR LEGS EVALUATED

ENJOY BETTER LOOKING BETTER FEELING LEGS

The Plan: How to Protect Your Circulation During Flights

Step 1: Wear Compression Socks
Medical grade graduated compression socks are designed to gently squeeze and support your legs, helping improve blood flow and prevent swelling. They can reduce your risk of developing varicose veins and DVT, especially on long-haul flights. It’s important to get these fitted to you so that you know they will work. It’s tempting to just order your socks online but we recommend proper fitting and use instructions with a vein care specialist.

Step 2: Move Around During Your Flight
Don’t just sit still. Get up, walk around, stretch your legs, and do simple exercises like ankle circles and foot flexes to keep your blood flowing. Even small movements make a difference. Just make sure your calf muscles are engaged, promoting healthy circulation.

Step 3: Stay Hydrated
Drink plenty of water before and during your flight. Dehydration can thicken your blood, increasing the risk of clots. Avoid alcohol or caffeine, which can worsen dehydration.

Step 4: Wear Comfortable, Loose Clothing
Tight clothing can restrict circulation. Opt for loose, breathable clothing that allows your blood to flow more freely.

Step 5: Elevate Your Legs
If possible, elevate your legs slightly during the flight. This simple act encourages blood to flow back toward your heart and prevents pooling in your lower extremities. If you don’t have the space to elevate your legs during the flight (most people don’t), then be sure to elevate your legs once you arrive at your destination.

PATIENT REVIEWS

*Individual Results May Vary

★★★★★ 5/5

Everybody was so friendly. I trust Dr. Harper. I feel like I did the right thing. I have more energy and am feeling better. I do believe that this has helped me. Go to your doctor, get a recommendation and talk with Dr. Harper and staff. Trust their recommendations and follow through with the procedure. I have nothing but good things to say and am so thankful.*

Dr. Harper and the staff are great. They make you feel extremely comfortable and they are very professional. I have had 5 procedures over the previous years and I have been very satisfied and happy with the results. I would recommend anyone who suffers with leg discomfort or varicose veins to go in for a visit.*

Very friendly and knowledgeable staff. Took great lengths to ensure I knew everything that was going on (before and during) and always made me feel extremely comfortable and at ease.*

We Understand, and want you to ‘Enjoy Your Travel and Not Worry About Your Health’

At Vein Specialists of the South, we want you to arrive at your destination healthy and ready to go. But here’s the truth: air travel without taking care of your veins can leave you facing unnecessary health risks. We’ve helped thousands of patients like you protect their vein health, even during long flights, and we can help you, too.

You Deserve to Travel Confidently Without Risking Your Health

You’ve worked hard to plan your trip, and you deserve to enjoy it without worrying about circulation problems. At Vein Specialists of the South, we can help you prepare for healthy travel. Whether you have a history of varicose veins or blood clots or just want to prevent circulation issues, our expert team is here to provide you with personalized recommendations.

Take This Travel Advisory Seriously, and Take Control of Your Vein Health Today!

Don’t risk your health on your next flight. Schedule a consultation with us at Vein Specialists of the South, serving Macon, Warner Robins, and Locust Grove, GA. Our vein specialists will assess your risk factors and provide expert advice on how to protect your circulation, so you can travel confidently and safely.

Take the first step toward better vein health—contact us today. Whether you’re a frequent flyer or planning a vacation, we’ll help you keep your veins healthy and strong for all of life’s journeys.

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