When snow starts falling, kids are jumping with excitement to get outside and play. You, on the other hand, may feel less joy knowing that you have the back-breaking job of shoveling all that white stuff.  

Although snow shoveling is often associated with orthopedic injuries to backs and shoulders, the connection between snow shoveling and heart attacks is no myth.

So what is it about shoveling snow that triggers heart attacks?  First of all, shoveling is a tough physical activity.  Taken at face value, shoveling snow is a very good exercise, but it is a very strenuous exercise. It tends to raise your blood pressure significantly from the lifting and it's a real stress on your cardiovascular system.

The physical exertion of snow shoveling not only increases the workload of your heart, but the temperature also increases the risk of a heart attack. Cold conditions tend to constrict blood vessels. When cold weather causes blood vessels to become tighter, it makes it more difficult for blood to pass through them.

• Dress warmly in layers
• Warmup and stretch before going outside
• Use an ergonomic lightweight shovel
• Begin shoveling slowly
• Make smaller shovel scoops, or push the snow rather than throwing it over your shoulder
• Wait until later in the day when it warms up a little bit
• Wear a scarf over your mouth and nose - this will cause you to breathe in warmer air, which is easier on your system than breathing in cold air.

Don't forget to keep yourself hydrated. You are still sweating while shoveling and you need to replenish those fluids.  It's a good idea, too, to avoid alcohol before heading out to shovel.   

If you do experience chest pain, chest pressure, or if you think you're having a heart attack, please do not delay calling 911 - it's the fastest way to get lifesaving treatment.  The snow can wait!