Winter and snowfall go hand-in-hand in places like West Virginia, but public health experts warn that trying to clear too much snow too quickly the old-fashioned way can have disastrous results for people with underlying heart problems.
The state Department of Health and Human Resources warns that shoveling snow can be especially dangerous for those who are older or who are not used to strenuous exercise, and can even cause heart attacks or other serious health problems.
"It is critical that residents understand that shoveling snow is strenuous work and can increase strain on the heart," said Dr. Rahul Gupta, state health officer and commissioner for the Bureau for Public Health.
Shoveling snow sends more than 11,000 people to the hospital every year, and although most have physical injuries, 7 percent are for cardiac problems, including heart attacks, according to the Cleveland Clinic.
According to the American Heart Association, both cold and increased exertion work to add stress to the heart, and the organization has several tips for avoiding a cardiac episode while clearing snow. The AHA recommends avoiding heavy meals or alcohol before or after shoveling snow, taking frequent breaks during, and using a smaller shovel or shoveling lighter loads.
"If a person has heart disease or high blood pressure, he or she should follow their healthcare provider's advice about shoveling snow," Gupta said. "Those who are not accustomed to arduous outdoor work should allow themselves plenty of time to do the work and rest often, as one cubic foot of snow can weigh up to nearly ten pounds."
The National Heart Attack Alert Program outlines several heart attack warning signs, including chest discomfort that lasts for several minutes or reoccurs, discomfort in one or both arms, the back, neck, jaw, or stomach, and shortness of breath. Other common symptoms include dizziness, nausea and cold sweats. If a person suspects someone may be having a heart attack, they should call 911 immediately, Gupta said.
Gupta added that in addition to heart attacks, those intent on shoveling snow should take precautions to avoid falling, which can result in serious injury.
"In addition to exertion, falls related to snow removal efforts from sidewalks, rooftops and other structures can result in serious injury," Gupta said. "Make sure you have appropriate footwear and wait for others to assist you when possible. This allows help supporting ladders, and to assist with climbing. If you are using a chainsaw, please follow the manufacturer's instructions for safe operation and stay away from power lines."
Reach Lydia Nuzum at lydia.nuzum@wvgazettemail.com, 304-348-5189 or follow @lydianuzum on Twitter.