Aspirus Health Warns of Heart Risks Associated with Snow Shoveling
2/8/2025
Melissa Wendell, Nurse Practitioner, Aspirus Cardiology
As winter weather
blankets the Upper Midwest, Aspirus Health is reminding residents of the
potential dangers snow shoveling can pose to heart health, particularly for
those with pre-existing conditions or who are not regularly active.
“Shoveling snow or
even using a snowblower can be a very strenuous physical activity,” explains Melissa
Wendell, nurse practitioner at Aspirus Cardiology. “For people with heart
conditions—or even those who have not been physically active—it significantly
increases the workload on the heart, which can lead to elevated heart rates and
blood pressure. These changes heighten the risk of a heart attack or other
cardiac events.”
Wintry weather
further compounds these risks. Wendell explains that frigid temperatures cause
blood vessels to constrict, putting additional stress on the heart. To mitigate
these effects, she recommends simple steps like covering your mouth with a
scarf to retain warmer air and reducing exposure to extreme cold.
Aspirus Health
advises individuals to watch for warning signs of cardiac distress while
shoveling. Symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, or dizziness
should prompt immediate action. “If these symptoms don’t resolve quickly after
stopping, it’s critical to call 911,” says Wendell.
Tips for Safer Snow
Shoveling
To help residents
stay safe during snow removal, Aspirus Health offers the following guidelines:
- Consult your health
care provider to ensure snow shoveling is safe for you, especially if you have
a heart condition.
- Use lighter tools
and push the snow rather than lifting it to reduce strain.
- Break the task into
smaller segments and avoid overexerting yourself.
- Consider community
resources or professional help if shoveling is too demanding.
“Many people try to
clear all the snow at once, especially after large storms, but it’s much safer
to take your time and pace yourself,” says Wendell. “For those who can’t
manage, community groups or professional services can often help.”
Aspirus Health urges
everyone to prioritize their safety and health during winter activities. For
more information about available heart care services, visit https://www.aspirus.org/heart-vascular-services.
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