The holiday season often means lots of travel, whether it’s to visit family or take a well-deserved vacation. But for the millions with venous insufficiency and related circulation issues, a long car ride or cross-country flight can lead to flare ups of painful symptoms like leg swelling, cramping, and heaviness if you aren’t prepared. Luckily, Dr. Hershman, owner and Vascular surgeon of Vascular Institute of the Pines has provided her top tips to keep your circulation happy and minimize holiday travel discomforts:
Compression Socks are Your Veins’ Best Friend
Pack a pair or two of compression stockings and wear them throughout long flights or road trips. As leading vascular surgeon Dr. Hershman recommends, compression socks promote blood flow in legs, preventing pain, swelling, and risk of dangerous clots associated with sitting for prolonged periods.
Hydration Helps Your Blood Flow
Flying and long car rides inherently deplete fluids and thicken your blood, so maintaining excellent hydration is key. Drink plenty of water pre-travel and avoid alcohol inflight which can worsen circulatory issues and symptoms. Bring a large water bottle for refills past TSA. Certain supplements may also assist in healthy blood flow, but be sure to speak with a vascular specialist to see what supplements are recommended for you.
Take Movement Breaks
Whether you’re in a plane, train or automobile, set a recurring alert for every 60-90 minutes reminding you to take a quick walk or do some calf raises which activates the “muscle pump” to push blood back to your heart, advises Dr. Hershman. If applicable, schedule regular rest stops.
Choose Supportive Footwear
Skip the flip-flops and flats! Well-cushioned shoes with arch support are vital for holiday travel. Compression socks lose effectiveness in flimsy footwear.
Contact Vascular Institute of the Pines today to get properly fitted for travel compression socks and other circulation-boosting tips!