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How to avoid economy class syndrome

Traveling can be one of the most fascinating and fun experiences we can have . However, when these trips are made for several hours, some signs of discomfort or syndromes may appear, such as the ‘economy class syndrome’. Today, we will talk a little about it, mentioning what it is, what its causes are and how to avoid it.

What is economy class syndrome?

The economy class syndrome, which is also often known as ‘traveler’s thrombosis’, is what happens when we experience circulation problems or blood clotting after being immobile for prolonged periods of time.

This usually happens when we travel by plane. However, the fact that the appearance of this syndrome also occurs when traveling by car or train, for long periods of time, is not ruled out.

Who is more likely to suffer from economy class syndrome?

Despite the fact that all travelers are exposed to being victims of this syndrome, there are some risk factors that can increase the chances of suffering it, such as:

  • Suffer from obesity
  • Have some type of cancer.
  • Having thrombophilia (risk of thrombosis).
  • Some type of heart disease that is chronic.
  • Being hypertensive
  • Having undergone surgery in the weeks prior to the trip.
  • Having blood circulation problems.
  • The intake of tobacco or alcohol.
  • Be pregnant.
  • Be of advanced age.
  • The intake of medications or drugs during the trip.

In case you suffer from some of the aforementioned risk factors, the best thing you can do is see a doctor before traveling . In this way, it will be able to evaluate your case and give you an accurate diagnosis about the risks that you may have of suffering from this syndrome, as well as give you the guidelines to follow to avoid it, recommend medical insurance , among other things.

Some recommendations to avoid economy class syndrome

It is important during a trip to take the necessary precautions to avoid the appearance of this syndrome, which may be capable of producing deep vein thrombosis, among other complications .

Next, we will talk about some very practical tips that, if you take them into account, can help you considerably to reduce the risks of suffering from economy class syndrome.

1. Wear comfortable clothes

This is essential, especially if the trip will be quite long , so try to bring comfortable clothes with you. Use a type of footwear that you can easily remove in case you need it, avoiding tight accessories, platforms, or other types of footwear that may cause you discomfort.

In addition, there are also special socks that you can use to reduce the risk of circulation problems. These are known as compression ‘ stockings’ or ‘socks’ . Of course, before buying and using them, it is recommended that you consult with your doctor if it is appropriate for your case to implement the use of this accessory during the trip. Elastic compression stockings are usually a good option in these cases.

2. Try not to remain motionless for long periods of time

If you want to avoid numbness in your body, uncomfortable tingling sensations, or more serious circulation problems, the best thing you can do is try to move as much as possible during the trip. It is important to get up and move frequently from time to time. It is also recommended during every hour to do a few minutes of exercises, flexing and extending the legs and arms. Do ankle exercises by moving them and lifting the toes. This is of great importance so that the limbs do not become numb and there is better blood circulation.

If you are traveling by plane, try to choose one of the seats with exit to the aisle . This, in addition to giving you the freedom to move through the corridor whenever you want without disturbing your flight companion, will help you considerably to avoid the risks of suffering from economy class syndrome. This way, you can better change your posture and go out to stretch your legs whenever you need to.

3. Drink plenty of fluids

Finally, we recommend that from time to time you try to stay hydrated, drinking fluids during your trip. Of course, discard alcoholic beverages from the hydration list, since in addition to not being allowed in many means of transport, they can cause counterproductive effects.

Also avoid the consumption of tobacco and coffee , since they can increase the risk factor of suffering this syndrome. At all times you must maintain optimal hydration, drinking especially water.

Try to be alert to the signs, and thus you will avoid as much as possible the chances of suffering from this syndrome

In addition to everything mentioned before, it is worthwhile that you also try to be alert to the signs that can be an indicator of the presence of the economy class syndrome. These can appear either during the flight, or after it, some of the symptoms being the following:

  • Pains in the muscles (especially in the extremities).
  • Temperature increase.
  • General discomfort.
  • Acceleration of the heart rate.
  • Strange discoloration of the skin (usually blue).

Remember, in case you notice the presence of some of these symptoms of discomfort, it is important that you seek to go immediately to a health professional . In this way, he or she can make an evaluation, giving you an assessment of whether or not the presence of the syndrome exists, and the guidelines to follow for your speedy recovery.

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Hello Readers, I am Nikki Bella a Psychology student. I have always been concerned about human behavior and the mental processes that lead us to act and think the way we do. My collaboration as an editor in the psychology area of ​​Well Being Pole has allowed me to investigate further and expand my knowledge in the field of mental health; I have also acquired great knowledge about physical health and well-being, two fundamental bases that are directly related and are part of all mental health.

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