With the growing number of travellers during vacation seasons, especially on long-haul trips, health experts are drawing urgent attention to venous thrombosis - a potentially life-threatening condition that often strikes silently during prolonged immobility.
According to the Ministry of Health’s Traveller’s Health Service, venous thrombosis occurs when a blood clot forms in the deep veins, typically in the legs or thighs. In severe cases, the clot can dislodge and travel to the lungs, causing pulmonary embolism, a serious emergency that can prove fatal if not treated promptly.
The risk of venous thrombosis increases during flights over four hours or road trips of similar duration, as prolonged sitting reduces circulation. Other contributing factors include a personal or family history of thrombosis, pregnancy, obesity, advanced age, genetic predisposition to clotting, and chronic health conditions such as diabetes or hypertension.
Often referred to as a 'silent threat,' the condition may begin without clear symptoms, with early signs like leg swelling or discomfort frequently going unnoticed or misattributed. This makes awareness and prevention crucial, especially during peak travel times like the khareef season, when tourists from across Oman and neighbouring Gulf countries head to Salalah, often enduring road journeys exceeding 10 hours.
To mitigate the risk, the Ministry of Health recommends:
Moving around frequently - either in the plane cabin or at roadside rest stops every two hours.
Staying hydrated and avoiding caffeine or alcohol.
Wearing loose clothing and, where advised, compression socks.
Consulting a physician before travel if you have risk factors.
Medical expert Dr Reem al Zaabi underscores the urgency: “We see a spike in thrombosis cases post-holiday travel. Many underestimate how dangerous long immobility can be.”
She adds that people with underlying risks, including pregnancy, obesity, and genetic factors, should be extra vigilant.
Dr Reem stresses hydration, avoiding leg crossing, and using preventive aids like compression socks.
“Venous thrombosis is preventable - awareness is your first line of defence.”
These precautions apply not only to air travel but to any form of extended travel by car, train, or bus. The ministry’s ongoing awareness campaigns are part of a broader public health effort to ensure safe and informed travel for all.
Oman Observer is now on the WhatsApp channel. Click here
