Now desk pilots are warned of dangers of getting DVT

Published on Friday 14 April 2006 01:14

SITTING at a desk all day could put workers at risk of deadly blood clots, doctors warned yesterday.

The dangers of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) from lack of activity on long-haul flights are already well known.

Now experts warn sitting in front of a computer for hours could cause a similar condition known as "e-thrombosis".

Occupational therapists agreed remaining seated at work for too long was dangerous, and recommended regular breaks.

Dr Beverley Hunt, a blood specialist at Guys and St Thomas' hospitals in London, said people who sat at a desk all day then sat at in front of a television at night were most at risk.

DVT occurs most commonly in the veins of the legs and is caused when blood flow is restricted, such as by a chair digging into the back of the legs, causing a clot.

The biggest danger is that part of a clot will break off when the blood is allowed to flow again and become lodged in the lung or heart, causing death.

One young man in New Zealand has already come close to dying from e-thrombosis after long periods of inactivity in front of his computer, according to the European Respiratory Journal.

Dr Hunt said doctors were now issuing advice to prevent the condition, not only for long journeys in planes, cars or trains during the Easter break - but for working life.

"You can help avoid getting DVT by clenching your calf muscles. It's helpful to stand up and stretch your legs every so often, and be careful not to get dehydrated, as this makes clotting more likely," she said.

Robert Fisher, a health and safety adviser with the Scottish Executive, said sitting in front of a computer for too long could cause back, shoulder and neck pain as well as headaches.

He recommended frequent "micro breaks" and changes of activity. "Make sure you keep moving about and keep your circulation going," he said.