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Suggest Treatment For DVT In Leg Despite Traveling In Long Flights

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Posted on Mon, 23 Feb 2015
Question: Hi - I had a DVT 20 years ago in my left calf due to a contraception pill I was put on. Over the years I have flown domestically, all I have ever taken is aspirin 2-3 days before travelling and 3days after the flight, my left leg is slightly bigger than the other which is the norm after so many years. I am thinking of doing a long hall flight, do you have any suggestions of what I can do?
doctor
Answered by Dr. Panagiotis Zografakis (30 minutes later)
Brief Answer:
A low molecular weight heparin

Detailed Answer:
Hello,

although your DVT incident happened while taking contraception (and can be medically justified), there are concerns for any patient with a history of thrombosis regarding future events. Sometimes individuals are prone to thrombosis. Genes play a role in it.

Assessment of thrombotic tendency would be required for a complete answer (Leiden factor mutation, etc), particularly if you've had similar incidents in the past again.

Regarding prophylactic treatment for thrombosis in long flights, a low molecular weight heparin would be more effective in thrombosis prone individuals than aspirin. Aspirin is an antiplatelet agent and won't target the coagulation cascade.

Low molecular weight heparins are given in doses according to the patient's weight.

I hope you find my answer helpful!
If you'd like further details, please let me know.

Kind Regards!
Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Yogesh D
doctor
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Follow up: Dr. Panagiotis Zografakis (2 days later)
Hi

Thank you for your reply. I note that the low molecule heparin is by injection, can you advise how many times a person may require this while they are travelling?

Regards

XXXXXX
doctor
Answered by Dr. Panagiotis Zografakis (35 minutes later)
Brief Answer:
only once

Detailed Answer:
Hi XXXXXXX

low molecular weight heparins can be used only once per day. They retain a protective effect for the whole 24h period. They can be injected under the skin of the abdomen.
Contact me again, if you'd require more details.

Kind Regards!
Note: For more detailed guidance, please consult an Internal Medicine Specialist, with your latest reports. Click here..

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Bhagyalaxmi Nalaparaju
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Answered by
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Dr. Panagiotis Zografakis

Internal Medicine Specialist

Practicing since :1999

Answered : 3819 Questions

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Suggest Treatment For DVT In Leg Despite Traveling In Long Flights

Brief Answer: A low molecular weight heparin Detailed Answer: Hello, although your DVT incident happened while taking contraception (and can be medically justified), there are concerns for any patient with a history of thrombosis regarding future events. Sometimes individuals are prone to thrombosis. Genes play a role in it. Assessment of thrombotic tendency would be required for a complete answer (Leiden factor mutation, etc), particularly if you've had similar incidents in the past again. Regarding prophylactic treatment for thrombosis in long flights, a low molecular weight heparin would be more effective in thrombosis prone individuals than aspirin. Aspirin is an antiplatelet agent and won't target the coagulation cascade. Low molecular weight heparins are given in doses according to the patient's weight. I hope you find my answer helpful! If you'd like further details, please let me know. Kind Regards!