Long Haul Travel with Veins.

As it gets cold in Brisbane you might be fortunate enough to be chasing the sun to Europe. Even if only dreaming about Santorini or St Tropez, cabin conditions are not favourable to anyone’s legs! Should you have a family history of varicose veins or Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) then take onboard these tips:

·       Pull on compression: Applying pressure to the legs helps stimulate your circulation. Travel socks can be bought at Departures but if at ‘risk’ you may consider getting Class 2 stockings measured to fit by a phlebologist.

·       Pack athleisure wear: once through the lounge and about to fly - change out of those jeans into loose clothing that doesn’t restrict.

·       Hydrate: Drink plenty of water (you will need to visit the toilet - see below). Avoid alcoholic beverages and caffeine, the affects of which are made worse by low humidity on planes.

·       Move:  The person next to you might not be a fan but definitely do your aeroplane exercises, walk up and down the aisles for 5 minutes every hour. If you are not moving your blood isn’t either.

·       Skip the pill. Taking tablets might help you sleep or reduce anxiety, but it will keep you sedentary. Discuss with your GP other choices for finding calm such as homeopathic treatments or meditation.