Warning Signs
There are times, however, when the swelling has some medical significance and should generate a call to your doctor.
If, for instance, you have only one swollen foot after flying or find your leg swelling after the flight, especially if it is painful, it could indicate a blood clot in your leg. Both pregnancy and immobility are risk factors for this. These clots can sometimes break loose and travel to your lungs, which may even be fatal.
Also, swelling may sometimes be a sign of a life-threatening complication called pre-eclampsia (toxemia in days gone by). Normal pregnancy swelling usually occurs in the third trimester, so if edema occurs prior to 27 weeks gestation it may indicate a problem.
Other indications of pre-eclampsia are if the swelling comes on rapidly or if it involves the face and hands. Accompanying signs such as headache, visual abnormalities or upper abdominal pain are important and you should call your doctor.
The next time you find your feet swelling on an airplane, don’t worry. For the most part this is simply a discomfort and inconvenience and should not interfere with your travel plans.
Safe travels… until next time!