A healthy 33-year-old woman’s terrifying experience on a long flight has sparked an urgent warning for all frequent flyers. Emily, a Canadian content creator (@alwayssingingmom), shared her near-fatal health scare during a 13-hour journey from Toronto to Dubai, emphasizing the importance of staying active while flying.
Emily's ordeal began ten hours into her flight when she felt unwell while waiting to use the bathroom. She described a 'deep, dull, aching' pain in her chest and subsequently collapsed, losing consciousness for five minutes. Upon regaining her senses, she faced grave consequences: a life-threatening blood clot that impacted both of her lungs.
As travelers prepare for long-haul flights, it’s crucial to heed Emily's warning to prevent similar health complications: 'perfectly healthy' 33-year-old woman almost dies on long-distance flight as she issues major warning.
Why Staying Stationary is Dangerous on Long Flights
Emily's experience underlines a critical health issue associated with long flights. When passengers remain inactive for extended periods, the risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) significantly increases. DVT occurs when a blood clot forms in a deep vein, often due to prolonged inactivity, such as sitting for a long flight. If left untreated, these clots can travel to the lungs, potentially leading to a pulmonary embolism, which can be fatal.
The NHS warns that passengers on flights longer than three hours are at a higher risk of DVT. Furthermore, individuals taking hormonal birth control, like Emily, are also more susceptible to developing this critical condition.
Critical Takeaways from Emily's Health Scare
Emily’s near-death experience resulted in her being diagnosed with a danger-level blood clot, a shocking fact for someone who considers herself perfectly healthy. Here's a summary of the key points to take away from her story
- Be proactive: Move around during the flight. Experts recommend getting up to stretch every 30 minutes when possible.
- Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water during your flight to keep your blood flowing.
- Wear compression socks: These can help improve circulation in your legs, a critical step to mitigate DVT risks.
Preventing Health Risks on Long-Distance Flights
Health guidelines emphasize several actions that passengers should take to lower the risk of developing DVT during air travel. Here are some critical recommendations
- Wear loose clothing: Tight clothing can reduce blood circulation, leading to discomfort or complications.
- Bend and straighten your legs: Simple leg exercises can prevent clots. Try moving your feet up and down to keep your blood circulating.
- Drink water frequently: Avoid dehydration, which can create thicker blood and increase the risk of clotting.
- Compression socks: Ensure you wear these throughout your flight to promote better blood flow. Brands like Comrad Socks offer comfortable and effective options.
- Take breaks: If possible, stand up, walk around, and stretch periodically.
Emily's Resilient Message to Travelers
Following her recovery, Emily is dedicated to spreading awareness of the dangers of long-haul flights. Her inspiring message emphasizes the fragility of life: "Life is so precious. Just really appreciate it." Beyond her personal story, this cautionary tale serves a greater purpose in highlighting the risks of static behavior during flights.
She remains an advocate for movement during flights, urging her thousands of followers on TikTok to prioritize their health. Simple acts like standing and stretching can significantly reduce the risk of severe health complications.
Conclusion: Prioritize Your Health While Traveling
Traveling offers numerous benefits, from adventure and exploration to cultural immersion. However, it's essential for all frequent flyers, including those who consider themselves perfectly healthy, to acknowledge and address potential health risks. Emily's story serves as a stark reminder of how easily one can overlook their health while focused on reaching their destination.
Make it a point to stay active, hydrated, and conscious of your body during long journeys. Your health matters, and taking precautions can ensure you arrive at your destination safely and ready to enjoy your travels.