   There has been a lot of talk about deep vein thrombosis – or DVT – in recent years, mainly in connection with long-haul flights. DVT is the development of a blood clot in a deep vein, usually in the thigh or calf and can happen if the blood flow in the vein is reduced. Sometimes the blood clot can break off and travel to the lung, which can be fatal. About one in 2,000 people in the Some people are more at risk than others from DVT, including those who already have heart disease or cancer, are pregnant, have had major surgery or are travelling long distances. Long distance travel increases the risk of DVT due to immobility. Although air travel is normally thought to be the most risky, even long-distance drivers could be at risk of DVT – although sensible precautions should reduce the potential risk. If long-distance driving is your job, it’s difficult to keep active but it’s important to make the most of the time when you’re not driving to move around. Not only will it keep your heart healthy and keep the weight down, but it will give you more energy – and will reduce the risks of developing DVT. What can you do to avoid DVT?
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