Arctic Blast Brings Heart Attack Risk: AHA Warns on Snow Shoveling Dangers

A major Arctic blast is set to sweep across the United States from the Great Plains to the Great Lakes, bringing the season's coldest air, dangerous winds, heavy snow, and a significant health risk. The American Heart Association, the world's leading nonprofit focused on heart and brain health, warns that the exertion of shoveling snow in these extreme conditions can dramatically increase the risk of a heart attack or sudden cardiac arrest. This warning is based on extensive research, including the Association's 2020 scientific statement on exercise-related acute cardiovascular events, which identifies snow shoveling as a high-strain activity that places extra stress on the heart, particularly for those not accustomed to regular exercise.

Dr. Stacey E. Rosen, volunteer president of the American Heart Association, compares the strain of shoveling to a treadmill stress test, noting that the combination of intense physical exertion and arctic cold forces the heart to work dangerously harder. The risk is heightened because shoveling is primarily arm work—which is more taxing on the heart than leg work—and because people often hold their breath while lifting, spiking heart rate and blood pressure. Furthermore, cold air constricts blood vessels, raising blood pressure and tightening coronary arteries. Those with existing cardiovascular concerns, such as a sedentary lifestyle, obesity, smoking history, diabetes, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, or prior cardiac events, are at even greater risk and should consult their doctor about winter activity limitations.

To mitigate these dangers, the American Heart Association offers critical safety tips: individuals with known or suspected heart disease should avoid shoveling altogether and seek help for snow removal. If shoveling is unavoidable, it's essential to start gradually, pace yourself, cover your mouth and nose, wear layered clothing, and ideally push or sweep snow rather than lift and throw it. Using an automated snow blower is a safer alternative, as it doesn't raise heart rate as high as shoveling. The Association also urges everyone to learn the common signs of a heart attack and stroke and to call 9-1-1 if symptoms like chest pain, lightheadedness, or palpitations persist. If someone collapses, immediate action with Hands-Only CPR can be lifesaving. For more information, visit heart.org to learn about cold weather and cardiovascular disease.