Winter heart health: Think twice before picking up a shovel

DULUTH - This week's snowfall has many Northlanders out shoveling for the first time in a year.

And with that necessary job comes some serious risks.

Up to 20 people every winter end up in St. Mary's Emergency Room with injuries caused by shoveling snow.

"Every time there's a big storm people will start doing stuff that they're not fit enough to do," said  St. Mary's Emergency Physician, Gary Foley.

Medical experts say shoveling requires substantial strength – enough to lift, on average, 30 pounds of snow every time you pick up the shovel.

And if you're not ready for it, injuiries could be severe.

"It varies from shortness of breath and chest pain, to full cardiac arrest," said Foley. "People will collapse at the end of their driveway or more frequently, probably come back inside and collapse because they know that they are starting to get into trouble."

Doctors say those most likely to suffer shoveling related injuries, like slipping, hurting your back or having a heart attack, are middle–aged to elderly.

If paying a neighbor kid to shovel for you isn't an option, health care professionals suggest seeing a doctor before the first snowfall.

"It's a very good form of exercise... Burn up a bunch of calories. But you do have to be fit enough to do it," said Foley.

If you are not in the best shape, the American Heart Association recommends buying a smaller shovel so that each load of snow you lift is lighter and easier on your body.

The American Heart Association also recommends taking breaks while shoveling.

Don't eat a heavy meal or drink alcohol before heading outside.

Be aware of the dangers of hypothermia.

If you notice discomfort in your chest or other parts of your body, or shortness of breath, stop and call 911.

Just like the shock of stepping outside into freezing temperatures, doctors say, avoid shocking your heart or you could end up in the emergency room.

"That's the key, is to make sure that you work your way into it," said Foley.

For information on how to prevent a heart attack, visit the American Heart Association's website at:

www.americanheart.org