The Risks of Shoveling Snow
The Risks of Shoveling Snow:
It’s that time of year again, when we must shovel snow from our sidewalks and driveways. Shoveling is a moderate to high demand exercise. If you have not shoveled snow in a long time, you may wake up the following day sore. Shoveling puts added demands on the body, and this is why you must be careful.
Shoveling snow can be stressful on the heart, especially if you do not exercise on a regular basis. The “New National Study finds 11,500 emergency department visits, nearly 100 deaths related to snow shoveling each year.”
Warning signs of heart attack:
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Shortness of breath
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Nausea/Vomiting
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Jaw pain
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Upper middle abdomen discomfort, heart burn, indigestion
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Sweating
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Upper back pain
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Vague feeling of illness
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Arm pain, most common in the left arm.
If you ever experience any of the warning signs of a heart attack, you should call 9-1-1 immediately.
According to the American Heart Association, here are some tips you should follow while shoveling:
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Give yourself a break
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Don’t eat a heavy meal prior or immediately following shoveling
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Use a small shovel or snow thrower (shovel lighter amounts)
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Don’t drink alcohol beverages (make sure you are drinking an adequate amount of water)
Also you need to ensure that you are dressed properly. The cold weather causes your blood to thicken and constriction of arteries, when can lead to elevated blood pressure.
Dress warm and wear proper shoe wear, as there is also the risk of slipping on ice.
Hopefully these tips will help you while shoveling snow, but remember to take breaks! The task does not need to be finished in one setting. Also, don’t be afraid to ask for help.
Author: Darci Mertz, M.S..
Resources
http://www.heart.org/HEARTORG/Affiliate/Shoveling-Snow-Health-Hazards_UCM_426562_Article.jsp#
http://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/protect-your-heart-when-shoveling-snow-201101151153
http://www.medicinenet.com/heart_attack__symptoms_and_early_warning_signs/views.htm