Heart attack snow refers to heavy, wet, and dense snow that makes shoveling extremely strenuous, significantly increasing the risk of heart attacks and cardiac events. The intense physical exertion, combined with cold temperatures that constrict blood vessels and raise blood pressure, makes this task dangerous, especially for sedentary individuals, those over 45, or people with existing heart conditions

Key Risks

• High Cardiac Stress: Shoveling heavy snow can be more strenuous than a treadmill stress test, causing rapid increases in heart rate and blood pressure.

• Increased Danger: Heavy snowfall is associated with a 16% increase in cardiac-related hospitalizations and a 34% increase in heart attack deaths in men.

• Annual Fatalities: Over 100 people in the US die annually from heart attacks caused by shoveling snow.

How to Stay Safe

• Use Proper Tools: Use a smaller shovel and push the snow rather than lifting it.

• Take Breaks: Take frequent breaks to rest and avoid overexertion.

• Warm Up: Treat shoveling as a high-intensity workout and stretch before starting.

• Know When to Stop: Stop immediately if you feel dizzy, lightheaded, or experience chest pain/shortness of breath.

• Avoid Smoking/Eating: Do not shovel immediately after eating or smoking, as these can increase heart rate and blood pressure.

• Hire Help: If you have high blood pressure, diabetes, or a history of heart issues, consider hiring someone to remove the snow.

Warning Signs of a Heart Attack

• Chest pain (may radiate to the back, jaw, or left arm).

• Shortness of breath, often with nausea or sweating.

• Dizziness or lightheadedness.

• If symptoms occur, stop, call 911 immediately, and take aspirin if recommended by a professional.