Economy Class Syndrome

Economy Class Syndrome

Economy Class Syndrome

Economy Class Syndrome is another name for Travelers' Thrombosis, more properly called Deep Vein Thrombosis.

Let's get it straight right from the beginning, economy class syndrome really has nothing to do with sitting in economy class. You don't get sick from sitting in those small seats close to other passengers... at least that's not the only reason you might get deep vein thrombosis.

Sure diseases can be passed among passenger, but you are at risk for travelers' thrombosis when you sit still for long periods of time. It could happen just as easily on a long car drive or train ride if you don't get up and walk around. It could even happen riding in a tank... that happened to an American television newsman a few years ago.... and it killed him.

Some people maintain that conditions in an airplane cabin might slightly increase the risk... Not so much those economy seats as things like the high altitude and low air pressure which can decrease the oxygen absorbed into the blood. There are debates among professionals about whether this is true or not.

It's gotten tagged as an economy class thing because the seats are close together making it harder to stretch and get up. There's not as much room to move around in the economy section as there is in first class or business class. If you're sitting by the window in a three seat row, just getting up to walk to the restroom can seem like too much to worry about.

Some travelers take sleeping pills to help them get through a long flight. While we wouldn't say don't do this... the problem is that you might sit for a long period of time without movement... that's when problems could start.

To prevent problems, try to drink more water and juices and keep coffee and alcohol to a minimum.

You're not a second class citizen just because you travel in economy class. Excuse yourself to your seat mates and get up and move around. At the very least, try to do some exercises that stretch some muscle groups... exercises described in inflight magazines may be effective at increasing the body's blood circulation and massaging muscles.

Some people are at higher risk for developing blood clots... people with certain clotting disorders, those who have had recent surgery, smokers and cancer or cardiovascular patients. Being dehydrated, obese, pregnant or on birth control pills raises the likelihood of clots. If you have one or more of these risk factors, you might want to talk to your doctor before flying, perhaps get some compression stockings or medication.

Call it economy class syndrome or by its proper name of deep vein thrombosis, it's a very small risk. The bottom line is to move and stretch, drink plenty of water, pay attention to your body and don't worry too much about it. Don't think you have to spring for a first class ticket!

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