Arctic Blast Brings Heart Health Risks During Snow Removal Activities

The American Heart Association warns that an approaching Arctic blast bringing sub-zero temperatures and heavy snow to much of the United States creates dangerous conditions for heart health during snow removal activities. Research shows that the physical exertion of shoveling snow, combined with extreme cold, significantly increases the risk of heart attacks and sudden cardiac arrest. According to the association's 2020 scientific statement, Exercise-Related Acute Cardiovascular Events and Potential Deleterious Adaptations Following Long-Term Exercise Training: Placing the Risks Into Perspective–An Update, snow shoveling is among the physical activities that place extra stress on the heart, especially for those not accustomed to regular exercise.

Dr. Stacey E. Rosen, volunteer president of the American Heart Association, compares snow shoveling to a treadmill stress test, noting that the strain combined with arctic cold could lead to heart-related emergencies. "That strain combined with the arctic cold expected this winter could lead to a heart-related emergency - especially for those who aren't physically fit or people with existing heart conditions," Rosen explained. The danger stems from multiple factors: shoveling involves primarily arm work, which is harder on the heart than leg work; lifting heavy loads often causes people to hold their breath, spiking heart rate and blood pressure; and cold air constricts blood vessels throughout the body, raising blood pressure and tightening coronary arteries.

The risk is particularly elevated for individuals with cardiovascular concerns including sedentary lifestyle, obesity, smoking history, diabetes, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, or prior heart conditions. The association recommends that people with known or suspected heart disease should avoid shoveling altogether and have someone else handle snow removal. For those who must shovel, starting gradually, pacing oneself, and using proper protective clothing are essential. Pushing or sweeping snow involves less exertion than lifting and throwing it, and using an automated snow blower raises heart rate less than manual shoveling according to research.

Cold weather presents specific cardiovascular challenges that require special precautions. The American Heart Association urges everyone to recognize the common signs of heart attack and stroke, including chest pain or pressure, lightheadedness, heart palpitations, or irregular heart rhythms. If symptoms occur during snow removal, individuals should stop immediately and call 9-1-1 if symptoms don't subside shortly after stopping. If someone collapses while shoveling, bystanders should call for help and begin Hands-Only CPR if the person is unresponsive with no pulse. Additional information about cold weather and cardiovascular disease is available at heart.org.

Scientific studies over the years have consistently identified the dangers of snow shoveling for people with and without known heart disease. The combination of physical exertion and extreme cold creates a perfect storm for cardiovascular emergencies, making awareness and precautionary measures critical during winter weather events. The association emphasizes that while physical activity is important for heart health, certain activities in extreme conditions require special consideration and modification based on individual health status and environmental factors.