The danger extends beyond those with known heart disease to include people who consider themselves healthy, especially if they are generally sedentary until a snowstorm arrives. Experts advise slower movement and pushing rather than lifting snow to reduce the strain on the cardiovascular system.
Shoveling snow can be hazardous to the heart, particularly during severe winter storms, according to health authorities. Pennsylvania health officials reported three deaths related to snow removal this past weekend in people aged 60 to 84. The American Heart Association warns that the combination of heavy exertion and cold temperatures creates heightened risk for heart attack, stroke, and cardiac arrest.
How Cold and Exertion Combine
Snow shoveling puts significant strain on the heart. The physical effort required can elevate the heart’s workload to the level of a major workout, even in a short time. When combined with cold air, the physiological stress intensifies: blood vessels throughout the body, including those that feed the heart, constrict in response to low temperatures. This vasoconstriction raises blood pressure and increases the risk of heart attack, stroke, and cardiac arrest, according to the American Heart Association.
Recent Deaths in Pennsylvania
Following this past weekend’s winter storm, the Lehigh County coroner’s office in Pennsylvania reported three deaths related to snow removal, all among people between the ages of 60 and 84. Officials cautioned against over-exertion and urged people to take breaks while clearing snow.
Who Faces the Highest Risk
Snow shoveling poses particular risk for people with known heart conditions. Anyone with a history of heart disease or who has survived a previous heart attack faces elevated danger, as do older adults and people with existing risk factors such as high blood pressure or high cholesterol.
The danger extends to people who consider themselves healthy. Those who combine heavy physical exertion with extreme cold are at risk, especially if they are generally sedentary until a snowstorm arrives.
Guidance From Health Experts
The American Heart Association advises that anyone who must shovel snow move slowly and, when possible, push the snow rather than lifting and throwing it. This approach minimizes strain on the cardiovascular system.
The association also urges people to learn warning signs of a heart attack and to call 911 immediately if they experience symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, or other distress.