Heart health reminders while shoveling Capital Region snow

ALBANY, N.Y. (NEWS10) — Saturday night’s snowfall caused slippery road conditions on Sunday throughout the Capital Region. One local doctor reminded people how to shovel safely, when it comes to taking care of your heart.

While there weren’t too many people shoveling in the rain on Sunday afternoon, those who were said the snow was a pain. Surendar Seshadri was out shoveling his driveway in Albany and said he had to call out his sons for some help.

“Yes, it’s heavy, it’s icy and it’s heavy snow so this is how we get our workouts up in the northeast,” said Seshadri.

However, Dr. Heidi Cordi, an emergency physician at Albany Medical Center and a spokesperson for the American Heart Association said that is exactly what people need to be careful of. Cordi said shoveling in this type of icy weather condition is a big workout that can sometimes be too much for the heart to handle.

Just like any other workout, Dr. Cordi recommended people try stretching before taking their shovels outside, especially those who don’t exercise regularly. Every winter, Dr. Cordi said the hospital is busy with people who have strained their wrists, backs or even worse, while shoveling. Her best advice, is to listen to your body.

“If your body tells you that it’s time to stop, don’t keep going on. People keep thinking I’m getting short of breath, just a few more, just a few more, and they’re so out of breath, the heart stops pounding and that can lead to even more strain on the body. And of course there have been cases of having heart attacks if you will, as well,” said Cordi.

Dr. Cordi also reminded people to stay hydrated and dress accordingly. She said it’s important to dress warmly but to not suffocate your body while you’re trying to shovel. Those with heart disease and lung disease should be especially careful as they are at higher risk of heart problems.

For more information on heart health reminders for the winter, visit the American Heart Association’s website.