Protect Your Heart When Shoveling Snow

For most of us, shoveling snow causes no harm and can be a good workout. But the American Heart Association warns for some the exertion and cold temps can lead to a higher risk of a heart attack especially if you have cardiovascular disease.

The following factors can put you at a higher risk for suffering a heart attack while shoveling are the following:
• Previous heart attack
• High Blood pressure
• High Cholesterol
• Smoker
• Inactive/sedentary lifestyle

Here are some TipsFromTown from the AMA for safer shoveling:
• Take frequent breaks. Pay attention to how your body feels during those breaks.
• Dress in layers. Be aware of the dangers of hypothermia. To prevent hypothermia, dress in layers of warm clothing, which traps air between layers forming a protective insulation. Wear a hat because much of your body’s heat can be lost through your head.
• Check with your doctor if you have a medical concern or question or if you are experiencing symptoms of a medical condition.
• Use a smaller shovel and take smaller shovelfuls
• Don’t start hard and fast when you walk out into the cold – start slow and allow your body to warm up before moving faster and taking bigger shovelfuls
• Remember to breathe! Especially when lifting – holding your breath and lifting heavy can lead to an instantaneous spike in blood pressure – putting much strain on your heart.
Slow and steady wins the race and you can always hire neighborhood kids eager to earn some extra bucks and do the job for you.