The Real Reason Your Ankles Swell Up On A Flight
By Mina Elwell
VACATIONS
Flying can be hard on your body, and your shoes and socks feel a little tight towards the end of the journey. This type of swelling is actually pretty common for travelers.
A 2021 study from Jornal Vascular Brasileiro says that about 97% of people who fly longer than seven hours will experience swelling. This typically does not pose health risks.
When you sit in one place for a long time, you put a lot of pressure on the veins in your legs. This causes harmless swelling related to having extra fluid in your body tissue.
In rare cases, swelling occurs because of a condition known as deep vein thrombosis (DVT). If swelling doesn't go away on its own, check in with a doctor to ensure it's not DVT.
To prevent swelling, try to get a seat with legroom to prop your feet up on your suitcase at times. Get up and walk around periodically and consider wearing compression socks.