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SearchA physician explains why it's important to be careful when shoveling snow, especially since it can increase the risk of heart attack for some.
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CLEVELAND – As the snow continues to pile up, many homeowners are heading outside to shovel their driveways and sidewalks.
And if you’re one of them, it’s important to be careful.
Research shows shoveling snow can put some people at risk for a heart attack.
“Your body is burning a lot of extra energy just staying warm, and then we put on more layers and that makes physical activity more difficult,” said Christopher Bazzoli, MD, emergency medicine physician for Cleveland Clinic.
It also puts extra stress on the heart, especially with individuals who don’t normally exercise.
So, what can you do to stay safe?
Dr. Bazzoli said to make sure you ease into shoveling snow doing just a little at a time.
If you experience any kind of shortness of breath, lightheadedness, or chest pain, you should take a break.
If your symptoms are serious enough, call 9-1-1.
Heart attacks aren’t the only concern when it comes to shoveling snow.
Dr. Bazzoli said he sees a lot of falls too.
“We see not only back injuries from the strain, especially with heavy snow, but we see a lot of people slipping and falling,” he said. “And so good footwear and devices that can actually strap onto your shoes, like cable systems or even tiny little spikes that strap onto your shoes, have become very popular.”
Don’t forget to dress appropriately for the weather.
These chilly temps can also put you at risk for hypothermia and frostbite.
