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Clearing the Snow, Damaging the Heart

Shoveling or snow-blowing after a winter storm can trigger potentially fatal heart attacks in vulnerable individuals.  A recent review of death records in the Detroit area showed that 84% of those with underlying heart conditions who had died suddenly from overexertion had been clearing snow when stricken.  Though most people do not put on workout clothes or train their bodies to clean up after a snowstorm, clearing snow is a strenuous physical activity.  Heart rates and blood pressure increase as much during snow clearing as during a treadmill workout, according to one study of healthy, inactive men.  Add cold temperatures into the mix, which cause blood vessels to constrict, and the heart is even more stressed.

If you live in an area where snow is a factor, it's important to take precautions.  To ensure that you don't fall victim to a heart attack or other physical ailments while clearing snow, try taking multiple breaks. We are fortunate enough to live in a time when preventative medicine allows us to be proactive in our healthcare.

P.S. - Hire a young person or someone with a plow to clear your snow!

By Dr. Carol M. Odegaard, M.D.

Eagles Landing Family Practice
145 Eagle's Walk, Suite A, Stockbridge, GA (770)389-3855
3758 Hwy. 42 S., Locust Grove, GA (770)957-3700
50 Kelly Road, McDonough, GA (770)957-1887
1058 Bear Creek Blvd., Hampton, GA (770)707-0808
211 Fairview Road, Ellenwood, GA (770)507-4554
Womens Center - 649 Jonesboro Road, McDonough, GA (678)432-6161

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