Don’t Let Snow Knock You Off Your Feet: Shoveling Safety
With winter still in full force, more snow is likely on the way. Your first instinct may be to start shoveling immediately, but it’s worth pausing. Snow shoveling leads to thousands of injuries and up to 100 deaths each year in the U.S.
Interventional cardiologist Dr. Richard Gumina of The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center explains that shoveling makes the heart work as hard as it does during an exercise stress test. Heart rate can reach 85% of its maximum within two minutes of shoveling—faster for anyone who is out of shape. Even using a snow blower can raise heart workload quickly.
Cold temperatures also cause blood vessels to constrict, forcing the heart to work harder. When strenuous activity is added, the risk of a heart attack or other cardiac event increases. People with existing heart disease, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, obesity, or a history of smoking face even higher risk.
If you do not exercise regularly, you should avoid shoveling snow. Even if you are active and have no risk factors, take precautions: shovel in short intervals, rest often, stay hydrated, and dress in layers so you can adjust as you warm up. Keep your head and extremities covered to reduce heat loss.
Stop shoveling immediately and contact your medical provider if you notice any of the following symptoms. If they last more than five minutes after stopping, call 911.
· Feeling lightheaded or dizzy
· Palpitations or a racing heartbeat
· Chest pressure or pain
· Shortness of breath
· Nausea or heartburn
· Excessive sweating
Don’t hesitate to ask for help with snow removal. Many people are willing to assist—and accepting help may protect your health and most importantly, your heart.
Misty Harmon, Assistant Professor, Family and Consumer Sciences Perry County, can be reached at 740-743-1602 or harmon.416@osu.edu. This column is provided by the OSU Extension Agricultural Safety and Health Team. https://agsafety.osu.edu/.