Yes, there are risks associated with shoveling snow
You may have heard of individuals having heart attacks while shoveling snow, particularly older people. But what's the big deal about shoveling? Is everyone at danger, or is this an uncommon occurrence? Here's everything you need to know.
Snow shoveling is tough workout.
The link between shoveling and cardiac incidents is true. Several studies, according to the American Heart Association, show an increase in heart attacks and sudden cardiac fatalities following snowstorms. Shoveling is strenuous job that can raise your blood pressure and heart rate much over what is considered healthy for sedentary persons with heart issues. Cold temperatures also appear to increase the likelihood of chest discomfort, probably because your arteries contract in the cold.
Who should consult a physician before shoveling?
You may have heard that before beginning an exercise regimen, you should consult with a doctor. More information is available here: most individuals do not need to consult a doctor, but this depends on your medical history and if you want to engage in strenuous activity.
Because snow shoveling is strenuous activity, it's worth reviewing those rules. If you have cardiovascular disease, diabetes, or renal disease and are not already exercising vigorously, you should see a doctor before beginning. That is true whether you want to undertake strenuous exercise like jogging, Crossfit, or shoveling six inches of snow from your massive driveway.
Pushing a snowblower also qualifies
Surprisingly, the same precautions that apply to shoveling snow also apply to using a snowblower. Snowblowing turns out to be strenuous exercise, despite the fact that, in principle, it should be simpler because a machine does some of the effort.
How to Lower Your Chances of Having a Heart Attack
The doctor who was the primary author on a report on the hazards of exercise suggests that persons who have undergone bypass surgery or coronary angioplasty, or who have already had a heart attack or stroke, do not do their own shoveling, according to an American Heart Association press release. He also mentions present and previous smokers, diabetes, obesity, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and inactive persons.
Even if you're in good enough condition to shovel snow, you might want to take a few steps to make it easier on your body. Even if operating a snowblower is difficult, it is still preferable to shoveling. And, if you must shovel, moving a shovel is less taxing for your body than continually lifting it.
I'd add that shoveling numerous times in a single blizzard is a game changer. Rather of waiting until there is six inches of snow on the ground, go out while there is just two inches and it will be a breeze. Repeat that process twice more, and you'll have a clear road without having to deal with ankle-deep snow.
Finally, pay attention to how your body feels while you shovel, and stop if you don't feel good. Alternatively, as the AHA put it:
Stop the exercise immediately if you develop chest discomfort or pressure, lightheadedness, heart palpitations, or abnormal heart rhythms. If symptoms do not go away soon after snow removal, dial 9-1-1.
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