And what you might do to prevent and alleviate them.

That’s because it’s extremely common for feet and ankles to swell when you fly.

The position of the legs while seated also increases pressure in the leg veins.

overhead view of a pair of legs in olive green pants, with white sneakers, in the exit row of a plane with a blue carpet

Credit:Alexander Spatari/Getty

Aim to walk around the cabin every hour.

Avoid crossing your legs, and pass on alcoholic beverages or any other sedatives.

Start walking or engage in another form of exercise as soon as possible.

This will not only reduce swelling but also help you fight jet lag.

In general, the chance of getting DVT starts to rise on flights over 12 hours."

6 Pre-Flight Stretches to do in Your Hotel Room to Help Prevent Blood Clots