Risk status | Risk factors | Advice |
All passengers | Low | Avoid excess alcohol and caffeine-containing drinks Remain mobile/exercise legs |
Moderate risk | Examples include: Aged over 60 Extensive varicose veins Recent minor surgery Pregnancy | Above plus consider: Take short periods of sleep Support hosiery/graduated compression stockings |
High risk | Examples include: Previous VTE (and not on current anticoagulation) Thrombophilia Within 6 weeks of major surgery Current malignancy | If travel is essential, consider: low-molecular-weight heparin or formal anticoagulation (including return journey) This requires careful clinical assessment |
VTE, venous thromboembolism.