This article except discusses varicose vein issues and air travel. It recommends consulting a physician if you have severe varicose veins if you are doing extended air travel.
Varicose Vein Article: Air Travel and Venous Thrombosis
http://www.inate.org/en/1/2/6/20/default.aspx

condensed from full article:
Introduction
Venous thrombosis in airplane passengers, or ‘economy-class syndrome’ as it is sometimes known, has received a lot of attention in newspapers and on television. Should venous thrombosis be thought of as a serious health risk to travelers? Here, we help you to separate the facts about thrombosis and air travel from the myths.
Does air travel increase the risk of thrombosis?
A long journey may increase your risk of thrombosis, simply because you are sitting still for a long time. There are also certain conditions related to air travel that may play a part in the development of blood clots.

Experts do agree that the risk of developing thrombosis increases as the length of the flight increases. The risk seems to become most relevant for flights lasting longer than about 8 hours. If you already have several risk factors, you are more likely to develop thrombosis. You should consult your doctor before a long flight if:
– Among other issues cited: – you have severe varicose veins or swelling in your legs

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