Why Snow Shoveling Sends People to the ER — And How to Stay Safe

A Winter Wellness Message from Your Healthcare Team

When winter arrives, many of us brace ourselves for the same familiar task: shoveling snow. It’s a chore we often take for granted, but did you know this everyday activity is linked to an increased risk of heart attacks, especially after heavy snowfall?

It might sound surprising, but snow shoveling combines strenuous physical exertion with cold temperatures—a perfect storm that places sudden, intense stress on the heart. As your healthcare team, we want to keep you informed, safe, and healthy this winter.

❤️ Why Snow Shoveling Can Trigger Heart Attacks

Even for people who don’t usually have heart symptoms, shoveling snow can act like a high-intensity workout—but without the warm-up, preparation, or gradual effort that exercise normally involves.

Here’s what happens:

1. The Cold Constricts Your Blood Vessels

When you breathe in cold air, your arteries tighten. This raises blood pressure and forces the heart to work harder with every beat.

2. The Activity Is More Intense Than It Looks

Shoveling uses your arms, core, and back in a way that causes rapid spikes in heart rate and blood pressure, similar to a stress test. The wet, heavy “heart attack snow” is the worst culprit.

3. The Body Is Under Sudden Strain

For people who are sedentary or who have underlying heart disease, the abrupt exertion can overwhelm the cardiovascular system.

Research shows that hospital admissions for cardiac events rise after major snowstorms—especially among men over 45, but the risk applies to anyone with heart risk factors.

🧊 Who Is Most at Risk?

While snow shoveling can be risky for anyone, certain groups should be especially cautious:

• People with known heart disease

• Anyone with high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, or obesity

• Smokers or recent former smokers

• Individuals who are not physically active

• Older adults, especially over 55
  

If this sounds like you—or someone you love—there are safer options than grabbing the shovel.

❗ Warning Signs You Should Never Ignore

Stop shoveling immediately and seek emergency care if you experience:

• Chest pain, pressure, or tightness

• Shortness of breath

• Lightheadedness or sudden fatigue

• Pain radiating to the arm, jaw, neck, or back

• Nausea or cold sweats
  

When in doubt, don’t push through it. Minutes matter in a cardiac emergency.

❄️ Smart, Heart-Safe Tips for Snow Removal

If shoveling must be done, these precautions can make it safer:

• Warm up indoors for 5–10 minutes before starting

• Dress in layers and cover your mouth to warm the air you breathe

• Use a small, lightweight shovel to avoid heavy lifting

• Push snow instead of lifting when possible

• Take frequent breaks, especially if snow is heavy

• Stay hydrated—cold weather can mask thirst

• Avoid caffeine or smoking beforehand

• If you take blood pressure medication, ensure you're taking it consistently
  

For high-risk individuals, consider a snowblower, hiring help, or asking a neighbor for assistance.

🌨️ This Winter, Make Heart Safety a Priority

Snow can be beautiful… but it can also be heavy, wet, and physically demanding. As winter settles in, take a moment to think about your heart before heading outside with a shovel.

At Woodside Internal Medicine, we’re here to help you stay healthy, informed, and protected. If you have concerns about your heart health—or if winter activities make you feel winded, dizzy, or uncomfortable—don’t hesitate to reach out. Contact Us.

Your heart deserves just as much care as your home this winter.

Stay warm, stay safe, and take care of yourself. ❄️❤️ Disclaimer:This article is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your healthcare provider regarding your personal health needs.