Khaberni - A medical expert has warned about a dangerous leg position that travelers should avoid during flights, as it can increase the risk of blood clots.
Dr. Nina Chandrasekaran, a specialist in pulmonary and critical care medicine, posted on her TikTok account @neenziemd, highlighting this common mistake and the importance of avoiding it. She explained that "the risk of blood clotting is higher during flights because the atmospheric pressure induces an inflammatory state in the body that can lead to blood clotting, especially in the legs."
Despite most travelers feeling cramped in legroom on the plane, one leg over the other poses a significant risk, according to Dr. Chandrasekaran: "The worst foot position is one leg over the other, as it obstructs blood flow due to vein pressure on each other."
The doctor explains that the atmospheric pressure at high altitudes is very different from the pressure at the earth's surface, increasing the likelihood of blood clotting.
To minimize these risks, she advises using compression stockings during the flight, as well as walking and moving the body periodically to improve blood flow. Some light exercise can also be performed to prevent blood stasis.
Experts indicate that taking a short nap during the flight helps to feel refreshed and focused, while avoiding the lethargy resulting from long sleep.
Harvard University explains that a short nap allows the body and mind to rest without entering deep sleep stages, whereas sleeping for a longer period may lead to "sleep inertia," which is a temporary feeling of drowsiness and slow reaction times that can last from 30 to 60 minutes.
