DVT

Deep Venous Thrombosis (or Deep Vein Thrombosis) is often referred to as 'Economy Class Syndrome'. It is a condition in which a clot, or thrombus, forms in a deep vein in a leg. The real risks occur if a part of this clot breaks off and flows to the lungs. This condition, called a Pulmonary Embolus, can cause severe injury or death.

Recent research, however, indicates that ANY situation that limits your activity for long periods - a long car drive or coach ride, for instance - may contribute to a DVT. For this reason, the term Traveller's Thrombosis may be more appropriate.

In this section, we look at the symptoms of DVT, and the best way of avoiding altogether.