Can Long Journeys Increase Your Risk of a Blood Clot?

Author : Insight Diagnostic Imaging | Published On : 02 Nov 2026

After a long flight or extended road trip, it is common to feel tired and uncomfortable. However, unusual swelling or pain in one leg after a period of limited movement should not be overlooked.

Long periods of immobility are among the factors doctors consider when assessing the possibility of Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT).

DVT is a condition in which a blood clot forms in a deep vein, often in the calf or thigh. It can affect blood flow and may lead to serious complications if part of the clot travels to the lungs.

Travel is not the only factor associated with DVT. Recent surgery, hospital stays, significant injuries, pregnancy, the period after childbirth, certain hormone treatments and a previous history of blood clots can also increase the likelihood.

However, having one or more risk factors does not automatically mean someone has DVT. A blood clot can also develop without an obvious reason.

This is why paying attention to new symptoms matters.

Some warning signs include swelling in one leg, calf or thigh pain, tenderness, warmth and changes in skin colour. These symptoms can have other causes, so they cannot confirm a clot on their own.

If you notice new and unexplained swelling or pain in one leg, arrange urgent medical assessment on the same day. Do not rely on how the leg looks or feels to decide whether a clot is present.

Your doctor may review your recent travel, medical history and symptoms. Depending on the assessment, they may request blood tests or a venous Doppler ultrasound. This scan allows the veins to be examined and blood flow to be assessed.

There is another important warning to remember. If sudden shortness of breath, chest pain, coughing up blood or collapse occurs, call 000 immediately. These may be signs of a pulmonary embolism.

Knowing the possible risk factors can help people recognise when medical advice is needed. But there is more to understand about how doctors assess suspected DVT and decide whether imaging is necessary.

Explore the signs, risk factors and testing process in the full article:

https://insightimaging.com.au/swollen-painful-leg-when-a-dvt-ultrasound-is-needed-urgently/