Why do my feet swell after a long flight?

Answer 1

Contrary to what has been suggested so far you do not have a vein problem, nor is a problem with not moving, if that were the case we would all wake up with swollen limbs.

It actually has to do with the pressurized cabin on a plane. Due to fact that plane must be pressurized for us to feel somewhat normal in higher altitudes, that doesn't mean that things aren't still happening at a cellular level. It does have to do with your lymphatic system not being able to circulate as well, which is oxacerbated by your not being able to move much. But the real issue is the lumphatic fluid slowly "leaking" out of the lymphatic vessels and into the surrounding tissue. This is a condition known as lymph edema and is easily rectified when you return to normal pressure and begin to move around again.

While it may be more noticeable to some, it happens to all of us. It is just more pronounced in those with poor circulation which is why some people think it is because you don't move around. Those with diabetes or heart condition could be at a higher risk for it, but it is hardly a life threatening situation.

What can you do to help alleviate this problem? Stay healthy for starters, the amount of leakage is less apparent in those individuals who stay active. Watch your salt intake a couple days before the flight as this allows more fluid to migrate more easily. And lastly, on those longer flights, take some time to stand and move around as much as possible. Most stewards understand that some people need to move around. Especially on long trips.

Answer 2

Feet Swollen After Flight

Answer 3

This is possible due to its construction making the air move between four chambers under pressure. This walking action requires some effort thus stimulating the leg and foot muscles. Sitting for long hours on an airplane or at work makes your legs ache. Your ankles also swell from such inaction. Without some movement, your leg muscles begin to feel numb. After a long flight, it is hard to fit your feet back into your shoes. All of these problems are caused by insufficient blood circulation in the leg veins. Ultimately: Inactivity of lower limbs leads to venous thrombosis. This causes pain and swelling of the calves and feet. The best prevention are leg exercises or walking

Answer 4

This Site Might Help You.

RE:
Why do my feet swell after a long flight?

Answer 5

Fluids pool in the legs during periods of inactivity. Wear support stockings, get up and move around. If you can't get up, move your feet and ankles around. Long flights are good breeding grounds for blood clots.

Answer 6

Poor circulation. When seat belts signs come on stand up stretch so blood can flow. If during turbulence and can't take off seat belt stretch your legs in front of you sideways or anyway you can move them to prevent swelling.

Answer 7

of course u may have (normally) stasis after long sitting or prolong standing, coz venous return from limps to heart depends on the muscular movement, so u r not moving, there will be accumilation of blood in veins but not excessive, if it feels painful and hot, u may have deep venous throbmosis(DVT) which is a serious condition may produce pulmonary embolism (PE), which represents as shortness of breath with chest pain.

Answer 8

i would go to my doctor that can lead to all kinds of problem even death there is sock you can get for this, the next time your flying get up a few time and walk around or even as you sit down move you toes around i would see my doctor with out delay more over if you fly a lot as this is related to flying

Answer 9

The change in altitude.... makes some retain water ... soak them in Epsom salt.

Answer 10

becuase you have a vein problem. der !!!!