Health Reason to Fly First Class?
Many people have a fear of developing blood clots on long distance flights. But is that fear justified?
ABC Senior Medical Contributor Doctor Timothy Johnson Reports
You've probably heard people express their fears about economy class syndrome.
That's where air passengers think that by sitting in cramped seats during a long flight, they are at greater risk of developing deep vein thrombosis -
better known as a blood clot -- which could result in death.
But according to a study by the American College of Chest Physicians, researchers found that the quality of your seating during a flight does not
increase your chances of developing a deadly blood clot.
However, where you sit in the plane could increase your risk! Flying long distance while sitting in a window seat increases your chances of getting a
blood clot because people sitting by the window are more likely to stay in their seats. That limited mobility will increase the risk of developing a deep vein blood clot.
To reduce your risk of developing a blood clot on a long flight, experts recommend you purchase compression stockings, drink plenty of fluids and
avoid wearing tight, short socks. But no matter where you sit on the plane, it's a good idea to get up and stretch your legs.
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