Snow Shoveling & Heart Health: What You Should Know

Snow Shoveling & Heart Health: What You Should Know

A Q&A with
Joshua Hinson, DO, FAAEM
Medical Director of the Emergency Department
at Chan Soon-Shiong Medical Center at Windber

Q: Why can snow shoveling be dangerous for your heart?

Snow shoveling is much more physically demanding than many people realize. According to the American Heart Association, shoveling snow, especially in cold temperatures, can significantly raise heart rate and blood pressure in a short amount of time. Cold air causes blood vessels to narrow, which makes the heart work harder, and lifting heavy snow adds even more strain. Together, this creates what the AHA refers to as a "perfect storm" for heart health risks.

Q: Who is at higher risk when shoveling snow?

People who don't regularly exercise or who have underlying health conditions are at greater risk. This includes individuals with heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, a history of smoking, or a previous heart attack or stroke. Age can also be a factor. If you fall into one of these groups, it may be safer to ask someone else to shovel or use a snow blower instead.

Q: Why does cold weather make shoveling more dangerous?

Cold temperatures cause blood vessels to constrict, increasing blood pressure and reducing oxygen delivery to the heart. Shoveling also relies heavily on the arms and upper body, which places more strain on the heart than lower-body activities like walking. When people rush to clear snow quickly, they may unknowingly push themselves beyond safe limits.

Q: What are the safest ways to shovel snow if you choose to do it yourself?

If you do shovel this winter, a few simple steps can help reduce strain on your heart and lower your risk of injury:

• Warm up before starting and pace yourself
• Take frequent breaks-don't rush
• Push snow when possible instead of lifting
• If lifting is necessary, bend at your knees, not your back
• Avoid twisting motions
• Dress in warm layers and wear boots with good traction
• Cover your mouth and nose to help warm the air you breathe

Shoveling smaller amounts of snow more often is also safer than tackling heavy accumulation all at once.

Q: What warning signs should people watch for while shoveling?

Stop shoveling immediately if you experience chest pain or pressure, shortness of breath, dizziness, lightheadedness, nausea, or pain in the arm, shoulder, jaw, neck, or back. These can be warning signs of a heart attack.

Q: When should someone seek emergency care?

If symptoms are severe or do not go away quickly, call 9-1-1 right away. Do not try to push through symptoms or wait to see if they improve. Early treatment can save lives.

Q: What's your message to the community as winter weather continues?

Snow is a part of life in our region, but so is looking out for one another. Know your limits, take your time, and don't hesitate to ask for help. A few extra precautions can help keep you safe and out of the emergency department this winter.

Stay warm. Stay safe. Stay heart healthy.