Caution is advised because there have been numerous cases of myocardial infarction during the winter snow removal process.
The American Heart Association warned that snow removal work could increase the risk of sudden myocardial infarction.
Annually, hundreds of Americans reportedly die while shoveling snow or shortly after. Experts attribute this to the combined effects of cold weather and the physical demands of snow removal.
Exposure to frigid air causes blood vessels throughout the body to constrict. Under these conditions, engaging in strenuous activity without a proper warm-up can strain the heart excessively.
Keith Churchwell from Yale School of Medicine explained that snow shoveling, primarily an upper-body activity, causes greater cardiovascular stress than leg exercises.
“While straining to lift heavy loads, such a shovelful of snow, you often unconsciously hold your breath, which causes big increases in heart rate and blood pressure,” Churchwell stated.
Snow removal can be particularly hazardous for individuals with sedentary lifestyles, as their blood pressure may rise more dramatically. Similar risks apply to smokers and those with cardiovascular conditions such as obesity, diabetes, high cholesterol, or hypertension.
Churchwell expressed heightened concern for individuals with a history of stroke, emphasizing, “People with these characteristics and those who have had bypass surgery or coronary angioplasty simply should not be shoveling snow in any conditions.”
When you are out shoveling snow, keep the following advice in mind: Wear gloves and a hat, keep your mouth and nose covered, and avoid clearing snow when windy. Pushing or sweeping the snow away is preferable to lifting it.
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