Compression socks for travel

[Support_helps]

Hello, wondering if anyone has a good experience with compression socks for long haul travel? I do experience some feet swelling these days during the day which usually goes away with elevation for a brief period of time. I have flights coming up in the 7 to 14 hour range so am thinking that apart from the usual precautions of staying hydrated I might be wise to use these special socks? I have renal limited ANCA vasculitis. Thanks for any input//

[LoveInTheMist]

Yes, I have used the socks they are very useful to prevent clots forming in the calves. Also to avoid getting a virus during the flight, have a dose of vitamin C and zinc tablets for a few days before the flight.

[Support_helps in reply to LoveInTheMist]

Sounds great thanks very much!

[Main1234]

hi you need ones that are 15-20mmHg

Practice putting them on- not easy especially on a plane!

There are 2 general types available graduated stockings usually available on prescription and non medical support hosiery widely available- made sure you get the right size .

Try to walk around the plane every hour if possible. After landing keep an eye out for any red areas on your legs/ swelling etc. observe for deep vein thrombosis ( urgent medical treatment needed) safe journey

On a side issue as Covid is on the increase wear a good mask FFP2 or FFP3 if available

[Support_helps in reply to Main1234]

Thank you that's very informative. Wondering now whether my nephrologist might even give me the green light to travel in Oct....I sure hope so. Its the 14 hour flight that concerns me, not so much the 6 hour ones. Maybe I will ultimately need to break it up a bit. 🙂

[Main1234 in reply to Support_helps]

I would discuss with your nephrologist and be guided by him/her. 14 hours is a long time to be technically immobile .

[jackrussell]

I had a 12hour flight recently , used otc flight socks ,ok to start with but found they began to feel very tight around the top ( just under my knee ) so had to take them off, not so easy on a plane, and compensated by moving my feet and legs occasionally ,and walking a bit. You could also try otc compression socks used for tired aching legs , they come in different sizes, might be a good idea for you to try at home before you go.

[Support_helps in reply to jackrussell]

Many thanks for that input, sounds like a good idea to try at home first. I don't have green light to travel yet but hopeful I will by Oct.//