This winter has seen unprecedented snowfall across the globe, with experts warning that shoveling snow can pose a serious strain on the heart, according to the Associated Press.
The Pennsylvania Department of Health reported three snow removal-related deaths on Sunday, with the deceased ranging in age from 60 to 84. The Lehigh County Medical Examiner's Office urged residents to take breaks and avoid excessive exertion when dealing with snow.
The office noted that removing snow manually is strenuous physical work, and studies have shown that even working for short periods puts the heart under a load comparable to intensive training.
Cold weather adds extra strain to the heart, as low temperatures cause blood vessels to narrow, including those that supply the heart, raising blood pressure and increasing the risk of a heart attack, stroke, or cardiac arrest, the American Heart Association warns.
Removing snow is particularly dangerous for people with heart conditions or who have previously suffered a heart attack, the elderly, and individuals with risk factors such as high blood pressure or high cholesterol. Even healthy individuals may be at risk when combining strenuous physical activity with cold temperatures, especially if they lead a sedentary lifestyle.
The American Heart Association recommends that when removing snow, one should work slowly and try rolling it over rather than lifting and throwing it. They also stressed the importance of knowing the typical signs of a heart attack and calling emergency services immediately if any of them appear.
