New guide to raise awareness of Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)

21/11/01
Health Minister Bob Kucera today announced a new initiative to raise public awareness of Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT).
DVT is a potentially serious blood circulation problem which can result in death.
Some doctors believe long distance air travel may be a risk factor for DVT and other forms of travel such as lengthy road and train journeys may also be of concern.
"A number of Western Australians have been affected by DVT during or following long distance air travel," Mr Kucera said.
"To provide the most up-to-date information available to the public, the Department of Health has produced a brochure which gives information on DVT, personal risk factors and some commonsense suggestions for travellers."
The personal risk factors that may increase the risk of travel-related DVT include:

• previous personal history of deep vein thrombosis, blood clots or pulmonary embolism;

• a family history of DVT;

• recent surgery or injury, particularly involving the legs;

• specific blood factors that increase the blood's tendency to clot;

• pregnancy;

• taking the oral contraceptive pill or hormone replacement therapy;

• active cancer;

• obesity;

• chronic disease, especially heart or lung disease and diabetes; and

• older age.

"People who have multiple risk factors, or who are uncertain of their personal risk, should seek advice from their general practitioner before travelling - particularly on long flights," Mr Kucera said.
"Some commonsense suggestions to reduce the risk of possible travel-associated DVT include periodic stretching, massaging calves while seated, drinking plenty of water during the flight, restricting excessive alcohol and coffee consumption, avoiding strong sleeping tablets or sedatives and wearing loose clothing during air travel."
The brochure will be distributed to general practitioners, travel agents, community health centres and airports - as well as being available at long distance coach booking and rail departure points.
According to Royal Perth Hospital's Thrombosis Service Director, Dr Ross Baker, diagnosis of DVT can be difficult because there may be no symptoms of the condition during or immediately after travelling.
Symptoms can include persistent calf swelling - especially if only in one leg, persistent pain or tenderness in the leg or calf during or after travelling, increased skin temperature or redness in the leg, sharp chest pain that is worsened by breathing, unexpected shortness of breath and coughing up of blood.
"If people experience any of the associated symptoms, even up to a month after travelling, they should immediately consult their general practitioner," Dr Baker said.
Media contact: Fran Robb (08) 9213 7000