A woman has issued a health warning after waking up after a 20-hour flight to find her leg had started to swell and burn.
Lois Chitticks, 26, was excited for her move to Australia as she embarked on the lengthy flight from London on December 31.
And while it can be a struggle falling asleep on a plane, Lois managed to sleep through most of the 20-hour flight and arrived in Adelaide in no time.
But she became concerned when her leg began to swell and burn two days after landing, saying the feeling was similar to “pulling a muscle”.
However, it turned out to be much more serious after doctors discovered a 4cm blood clot in her calf.
Speaking to FEMAIL, Lois said: “It felt hotter than the other leg and was annoying me so much I couldn’t sleep. During the flight I didn’t really get up at all as I was just so comfortable in my aisle seat. I got up once at the end of both flights to use the bathroom – other than that I just slept the whole time.”
Health experts warn that the risk of blood clots is higher when flying due to air pressure and long periods of immobility – particularly on long-haul flights.
Lois admitted that her father had encouraged her to move around frequently and bought her compression socks – which she didn’t wear.
“I massively regret that now,” she added.
At the hospital, doctors gave Lois blood tests and an ultrasound that confirmed she had a 4cm deep vein thrombosis.
Doctors have since recommended Lois waits for the clot to dissolve as they keep an eye on it with regular check ups at the hospital.
Lois shared her experience on TikTok in the hopes of warning other travellers of the symptoms. “Girl I’m impressed you managed to sleep for that long,” one person commented, another said: “At least you hit the Aussie health system.”
“Oh gosh I am so sorry.. hope you are ok now,” a third wrote. Others admitted they’ve also made the same mistake by not moving around regularly on long flights.
