swollen ankles

[NOTTM NUMPTY]

Sometimes my ankles and feet are freezing and when I go on a journey for a length of time my ankles start to swell up. I have done all the excercises that are suggested. I am soon going on a 9 hour flight and don't want this to happen. Not sure wether it is to do with water retention or due to hot weather. Any other suggestions please.

[FP]

I bought some flight socks (Scholl).  They sell them in most chemists and definitely in boots.  They are long black socks - not very pretty but they do help a great deal and also guard against Deep Vein Thrombosis.  They are quite tight but not uncomfortable.  Also don't drink alcohol on the flight, drink loads of water and every so often get up and walk about. 

Good luck.

[FP]

Another tip (from my doctor) is to try and sit so that the backs of your thighs are raised up from the seat, i.e. put your feet up on a bag or something  instead of on the floor. 

[mystress]

Ask your GP to check you for Reynaud's Syndrome,which causes feet and hands to be very cold,due to poor circulation.

If it is this,Gingko Biloba( Herbal) is very good.