Arctic Blast Brings Heart Health Risks: American Heart Association Warns About Snow Shoveling Dangers

The impending Arctic blast forecast to sweep across the United States from the Great Plains to the Great Lakes brings not only sub-zero temperatures and heavy snow but also serious cardiovascular risks, according to the American Heart Association. Research indicates that the physical exertion of shoveling snow in extreme cold can significantly increase the risk of heart attack or sudden cardiac arrest, particularly for individuals unaccustomed to regular exercise or those with existing heart conditions.

Stacey E. Rosen, M.D., FAHA, volunteer president of the American Heart Association, compares the strain of snow shoveling to a treadmill stress test, noting that this strain combined with arctic cold could lead to heart-related emergencies. 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, identifies snow shoveling among physical activities that place extra stress on the heart.

Several physiological factors contribute to the increased risk during winter snow removal. Shoveling primarily involves arm work, which places greater strain on the heart than leg work. The action of lifting heavy loads often causes people to unconsciously hold their breath, spiking heart rate and blood pressure. Additionally, cold air constricts blood vessels throughout the body, raising blood pressure and tightening coronary arteries. These effects are particularly dangerous for individuals with cardiovascular concerns including sedentary lifestyle, obesity, smoking history, diabetes, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, or prior cardiac events.

The American Heart Association provides specific recommendations to reduce risks during snow removal. For those with known or suspected heart disease or risk factors, having someone else handle snow removal is the safest option. If shoveling is necessary, starting gradually and pacing oneself is crucial. Proper winter attire including layered clothing, hat, gloves, and covering the mouth and nose helps mitigate cold exposure. Pushing or sweeping snow rather than lifting and throwing it involves less exertion. Windy conditions require extra caution as wind chill makes temperatures feel colder and intensifies the cold's effects on the body.

Research shows that using an automated snow blower raises heart rate less than manual shoveling, though caution and body awareness remain important. The association emphasizes recognizing heart attack and stroke symptoms, including chest pain or pressure, lightheadedness, heart palpitations, or irregular heart rhythms. If symptoms occur during snow removal, stopping immediately is essential, and calling 9-1-1 if symptoms persist after cessation. For someone who collapses while shoveling, calling for help and initiating Hands-Only CPR if unresponsive with no pulse can be lifesaving.

This warning carries significant implications as extreme weather events become more frequent, potentially exposing larger populations to these cardiovascular risks. The information underscores the importance of public awareness about how routine winter activities can trigger medical emergencies, particularly for vulnerable populations. Healthcare providers may need to incorporate winter activity counseling into patient care, especially for those with cardiovascular risk factors. The broader public health impact involves recognizing that weather-related hazards extend beyond hypothermia and frostbite to include serious cardiac events.

Additional resources about cold weather and cardiovascular health are available through the American Heart Association at heart.org. Scientific research including the Journal of the American Medical Association manuscript on cardiac demands of heavy snow shoveling provides further evidence of these risks. As communities prepare for winter storms, understanding these health implications becomes crucial for preventing weather-related cardiac emergencies.