Khaberni - This winter has seen unprecedented snowfall across the world, with experts warning that clearing snow piles can pose a serious burden on the heart, according to the Associated Press.
The Pennsylvania Department of Health reported three snow removal-related deaths on Sunday, with the deceased aged between 60 and 84 years old. The Lehigh County coroner's office has urged residents to take breaks and avoid excessive strain when dealing with snow.
The office noted that manually removing snow is a strenuous physical task, and studies have shown that even working for short periods makes the heart work under a load comparable to intense training.
Cold weather adds extra pressure on the heart, as low temperatures cause narrowing of blood vessels, including those that supply the heart, which raises blood pressure and increases the risk of heart attack, stroke, or cardiac arrest, according to the American Heart Association.
Snow removal is especially dangerous for people with heart conditions or those who have previously had a heart attack, elderly people, as well as individuals at risk due to factors like high blood pressure or high cholesterol. Even healthy individuals may face risks when combining intense physical effort with cold, especially if they typically lead a sedentary lifestyle.
The American Heart Association advises those who need to remove snow to work slowly, try to roll the snow rather than lifting and throwing it. It also emphasized the importance of knowing the typical signs of a heart attack and calling an ambulance immediately if any of them appear.
