Experts remind travelers during extended holidays: Regardless of your mode of transportation, remember to "stretch your muscles and promote blood circulation" during the journey to prevent symptoms like numbness, stiffness, and poor blood flow in the lower limbs caused by prolonged sitting. This is especially crucial for middle-aged and elderly individuals, as well as those with cardiovascular conditions such as obesity, diabetes, or hypertension. If a blood clot travels to the heart via the circulatory system, it can be life-threatening. Doctors recommend taking the following preventive measures during long trips:
First, stand up periodically to walk, take deep breaths, and perform simple stretching exercises. This not only relieves muscle cramps but also refreshes the mind.
Second, rise onto your toes. If walking in the aisle is not possible, stand beside your seat, lift your heels, and raise your toes. Hold each position for a few seconds, repeating 10–15 times.This forces leg muscles to contract, pushing blood back into veins and preventing clots;
Third, drink plenty of fluids. Before and during travel, consume ample non-alcoholic beverages. Dehydration thickens blood, increasing clot risk;
Fourth, passengers with cold symptoms should use vasoconstrictors before boarding to prevent ear discomfort during takeoff and landing, which can cause otitis media. Combine this with chewing gum or swallowing saliva to equalize pressure between the middle ear and external air pressure.
Additionally, if you experience leg pain or swelling during the trip, be sure to stand up and move your legs.