Heavy snowfall poses significant health risks, particularly for those with pre-existing conditions or sedentary lifestyles, as shoveling can lead to serious heart-related events, experts warn.
As the northeastern United States braces for historic snow accumulation this week, health experts are sounding the alarm about the dangers of shoveling heavy, wet snow. The combination of strenuous physical activity and exposure to frigid temperatures can place a significant strain on the heart, particularly for individuals who are not regularly active or who have underlying health issues.
Dr. Marc Siegel, a senior medical analyst for Fox News, emphasized that the risks associated with shoveling snow are heightened by the weight of the snow and the cold winds. “The combination of the wet, heavy snow and the heavy winds make it more of a health risk because it’s much harder to get around,” he told Fox News Digital.
In addition to the physical exertion required for shoveling, heavy, wet snow can create hazardous conditions. As temperatures drop, the snow can freeze, leading to icy surfaces that pose risks for walking and driving. “In the aftermath of the storm, as the temperatures drop, the heavy, wet snow forms ice, which makes walking and driving treacherous,” Siegel noted.
Moreover, heavy snow can infiltrate clothing, increasing the risk of hypothermia in severe cases. Siegel urged individuals to dress appropriately for the conditions, highlighting the importance of wearing gloves, hats, and warm coats. “I saw this morning people who weren’t covered properly… weren’t wearing gloves, didn’t have the full hat, or the kind of overcoat they needed,” he said. “They also weren’t looking out for each other.” He stressed the need for community vigilance during such weather events.
Siegel advised against unnecessary outdoor activity, warning of the dangers posed by fallen power lines and trees weighed down by snow. “Watch out if you are outside for brief periods — for fallen power lines or for trees that are down. That’s very, very dangerous as well,” he cautioned. “That’s where a lot of the injuries come from.”
Dr. Joshua Latzman, a cardiologist at White Plains Hospital Physician Associates in New York, echoed these concerns. He explained that research indicates shoveling heavy snow can impose “significant stress on the heart.” He noted that this risk is exacerbated in cold temperatures, which can elevate blood pressure and constrict coronary arteries. “This can be especially dangerous for people who are out of shape or not used to strenuous activity,” Latzman said.
Many heart-related incidents occur among individuals who are typically inactive. Latzman warned that when someone who is sedentary suddenly engages in heavy shoveling after a storm, the unexpected physical strain can lead to serious emergencies. “Straining to lift something heavy can have the same effect if normal breathing is impacted,” he added.
Those at greater risk include individuals who are obese, smokers or former smokers, people with diabetes, and those with high cholesterol or high blood pressure. Additionally, anyone with a history of heart attacks or strokes should exercise extreme caution, according to the American Heart Association (AMA).
“Anyone with these characteristics, including people who have undergone bypass surgery or coronary angioplasty, should not be shoveling snow,” Latzman concluded.
Siegel advised those who may be at risk to avoid shoveling altogether, suggesting they “get a younger person or somebody who’s in much better shape to do it.” He described shoveling snow as “about the most cardiac expenditure of energy that you can have.” For those who must shovel, experts recommend taking a gradual approach and working at a comfortable pace.
The AMA also suggests covering the mouth and nose while shoveling and dressing in layers, including hats and gloves. Pushing or sweeping snow is generally safer than lifting and throwing it, as it requires less energy and reduces the risk of injury.
In summary, while heavy snowfall can create logistical challenges, it is crucial to recognize the potential health risks associated with shoveling. Taking precautions and being mindful of one’s physical condition can help mitigate these dangers.
For more information on health risks related to snow shoveling, consult the American Heart Association.