What Causes Leg and Foot Swelling During Air Travel? Is It Serious?

What Causes Leg and Foot Swelling During Air Travel? Is It Serious?

Swelling of the legs and feet during air travel is very common and usually not a cause for concern. The most likely reason is prolonged sitting during the flight, with feet on the floor and little movement, which leads to poor venous return in the lower limbs. Fluid then leaks from the blood vessels into the surrounding soft tissues, causing swelling.

Here are some methods to alleviate swelling during air travel:

• Wear loose-fitting clothing.
• Walk around every hour or so.
• Stretch your ankles and knees regularly while seated.
• Frequently change your sitting position and avoid crossing your legs.
• Drink plenty of water to prevent dehydration.
• Avoid alcohol and sedatives, as they can cause drowsiness and reduce your desire to move.

If the swelling in your feet is short-lived, it's usually not a major issue. However, if the swelling is severe and persists for several hours after resuming activity, it could indicate a serious problem, such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT), especially if only one leg is swollen and painful. Seek medical attention immediately if this occurs.

If you have high-risk factors for thrombosis, such as recent major surgery or being on birth control pills, consult your doctor before traveling. Your doctor may recommend wearing compression stockings during the flight and sometimes taking anticoagulant medication before the trip.