Airplane Accidents - Travel Dangers
Air travel can be stressful, but there are times when it can be dangerous to your health as well. Certain air travelers are more susceptible to the health problems associated with frequent flying. Since airplane passengers are in cramped spaces for an extended time, physical problems caused by sitting in the same position for the duration of a flight can cause circulation to become problematic.
Thrombosis, a medical condition in which blood clots form in a blood vessel and prevent normal blood flow, is a potentially life-threatening situation. Sadly, it is a major cause of death in our society. Air travelers riding in the "economy class" area of the airplane may be particularly susceptible to this condition due to tight seating on long-distance flights. These seats provide very little leg room. Studies have shown that even physically fit people are at risk for thrombosis because limited space in an aircraft can actually inhibit sufficient blood flow in the legs of all passengers and flight personnel, no matter what their health history.
Some people, however, do have an underlying predisposition for developing thrombosis. This susceptibility is known as "thrombophilia." Several factors are known to increase the risk of the condition. An elderly and/or overweight person is at greater risk, but the conditions of the plane itself may also increase the risk of thrombosis. If the air is dry, recirculation is inadequate, or if one is seated in the more cramped quarters of economy class, thrombosis may be more likely to occur.
There are a number of things air travelers can do to help prevent thrombosis:
- Stay adequately hydrated. Drink plenty of water and avoid alcoholic beverages.
- Make yourself as comfortable as space allows--store baggage in overhead compartments instead of underfoot.
- Take advantage of opportunities to move around the aircraft cabin.
- Consider consulting with your physician prior to flying about wearing special support hose that help increase circulation if you are in a high risk group.
If you or a loved one has suffered an injury or death as the result of an airplane accident, call VanDerGinst Law at 1-866-843-7367 or click here for a FREE online case evaluation. The initial consultation is free of charge. If we agree to handle your injury case, we will work on a contingency fee basis, which means we get paid for our services only if, and when, there is a money recovery for you. In many cases a lawsuit must be filed before an applicable expiration date, known as a statute of limitations. So please call right away to ensure that you do not waive your right to possible compensation.
