Travellers are putting themselves at risk of deadly blood clots because they’re wearing flight compression socks wrong
PASSENGERS are often advised to wear compression socks before travelling to reduce the risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and leg swelling from flying.
However, a doctor has revealed why travellers could be wearing them wrong, which in turn makes them less effective.
Dr Marc Shaw of Worldwise Travel Clinics told the socks should be put on much earlier in the day.
He explained: "Ideally you should put them on when you get up first thing in the morning, because that's the time when your legs are less swollen."
This allows your body to adapt to the socks to reduce any swelling later.
Marc also warned travellers to not take them off as soon as they land, again to give the body time to adapt.
He said: "Take them off at the hotel, or even some hours afterwards to allow the system to equate again."
Wearing the socks for the extra time can reduce any swelling of the legs much more effectively than if they are taken straight off.
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Compression socks come in a range of strengths and Marc recommends level one, which measures between 18 and 22 mmHG in pressure.
Higher pressure compression socks may require a doctor's prescription.
Sitting on a plane for long periods of time can increase the risk of DVT due to the lack of movement, as well as reduced cabin pressure and dehydration.
DVT is when a blood clot develops in the leg, and it can break off and travel to the lungs or elsewhere and cause damage.
It can still be deadly eight weeks after travelling, Dr Sarah Brewer previously explained to The Sun.
Symptoms can include the affected area - such as the calf - being tender or red. swollen or painful legs, discolouration and fever.
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A flight attendant revealed how passengers can make sure they keep moving even if they are trapped by a window seat.
Emirates cabin crew Lauren Guilfoyle previously explained how the A-B-C method, writing the alphabet with your foot, can allow reduce ankle swelling.
Avoiding tomato juice is also advised by members of the cabin crew as it is high in salt, which can dehydrate you and increase swelling.