Shoveling snow is hard on your body and cold weather puts a strain on your heart, even without exercise.
If there is any reason that shoveling snow might be dangerous for you, such as a heart condition, consult your doctor before shoveling. While some heart attacks are sudden and intense, many heart attacks start slowly with mild pain or discomfort. If you or someone you are with begins to have chest discomfort, especially with one or more of the other signs of a heart attack, call 9-1-1 right away.
It also is important to make sure you are dressed properly for the weather:
Advertisement
- Wear layers of loose-fitting, lightweight, warm clothing. Trapped air between the layers will insulate you. Outer garments should be tightly woven, water repellent, and hooded.
- Wear a hat – 40 percent of your body heat can be lost from your head.
- Mittens, snug at the wrist, are better than gloves.
- Try to stay dry and out of the wind.
- Wear sleeves that are snug at the wrist.
- Wear a water-resistant coat and shoes.
For more information on cold-related health problems and outdoor safety you also can visit Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and National Weather Service.