According to the American Heart Association (AHA), snow shoveling is among the more physically demanding activities that, when combined with frigid temperatures and stormy conditions, offer the perfect recipe for a heart attack -- in some people.
"Research has found that the strain of heavy snow shoveling may be as demanding on the heart [as] taking a treadmill stress test. Combined with the dangers of exertion in extremely cold weather, you're looking at a perfect storm for a heart-related event," AHA volunteer president, Dr. Keith Churchwell, said in the AHA's press release.
Furthermore, per a medically-reviewed article in Healthline, snow shoveling movements (or lack thereof) further the risk of a heart attack in those unused to strenuous activities.
AHA research cited in Healthline indicates that heavy use of the arms in demanding physical activities causes strain on the heart. Additionally, minimal use of the legs means that less blood is circulating to the heart and lungs, and instead pooling in the legs.
According to Good Housekeeping, an individual age 45 or older with heart disease and who maintain a sedentary lifestyle is especially at risk. Those at that age who have heart disease markers but are unaware of it are similarly very much at risk.
According to Stony Brook University Heart Institute cardiologist and Outpatient Services Director On Chen, MD, pushing a snow blower through heavy snow can be equally dangerous in stressing a person's heart in demanding weather conditions. The expected rise in blood pressure and heart rate puts the person pushing the snow blower at risk.