Blood clot risks for drivers on long journeys

DRIVERS as well as air passengers could be at risk from deep vein thrombosis (DVT) on long trips, the RAC Foundation warned yesterday

The phenomenon could affect anyone seated in the confined space of, for example, a family car for a prolonged period, the motoring foundation said.

A French cardiologist has published a report saying that any journey of more than four hours carried a risk of pulmonary embolism or blood clots irrespective of the means of transport.

A consultant at Addenbrooke's Hospital in Cambridge, England, cited the case of a strapping six-foot student who developed DVT after travelling from Leicester to Aberdeen in a friend's Mini.

RAC Foundation executive director Edmund King said: "It is, as yet, uncertain whether DVT poses a threat to everyone travelling or immobile for more than four hours or whether travelling for long periods can trigger DVT in those who are medically or genetically predisposed to blood clots. "People making long journeys by car this summer might be wise to take some sensible, precautionary measures, such as taking breaks and drinking plenty of water. These are also actions which can help drivers to avoid fatigue.

"For anyone in the 'at risk' category, it is even more important to heed this advice," he warned.