Are you too old to shovel snow?Experts reveal the hidden heart risks

Heart health experts have shared warnings of the physical strain shoveling can take — particularly for older adults.(iStock)

“Certainly in people who are above the age of 65 — and who have risk factors for heart disease, such as high blood pressure,high cholesterol, diabetes, obesity or sedentary lifestyle — we recommend being very, very cautious about shoveling snow,” she advised. 

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Dr.John Osborne, M.D., a practicing Texas cardiologist and volunteer for the American Heart Association, shared similar guidance for people older than 45, especially males over 65.

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“Unless you are in good cardiovascular shape and conditioned, it may be a good idea to ask someone for help,�

The impact of snow removal is especially concerning for those with existing cardiovascular risks and a history ofheart attack or stroke, according to the cardiologist.“People with these characteristics and those who have had bypass surgery or coronary angioplasty simply should not be shoveling snow in any conditions,” he said.

Just 10 minutes of heavy snow shoveling can push the heart to about 97% of its maximum rate, a 2025 Mayo Clinic review found.(iStock)

Osbourne said he often sees cardiac episodes in people who are typically sedentary and sit at a computer most of the day with little or no exercise.“Then once or twice a year, they go out and try to shovel the driveway after aheavy snowfall, and that unexpected exertion can unfortunately lead to tragedy.”

Hidden strain

The stress that is placed on one’s heart while shoveling snow is similar to what occurs during a cardiac stress test, Sobti pointed out, and may even exceed it.

Cold temperatures can cause blood vessels to constrict andblood pressure to spike— which, coupled with existing hypertension and the exertion of lifting snow, can significantly tax the heart, she warned.

The stress that is placed on one’s heart while shoveling snow is similar to what occurs during a cardiac stress test.(iStock)

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In addition to the exertion of shoveling, frigid temperatures can alsostrain the heart.Recent research has shown that cold exposure accounts for nearly twice as many cardiovascular deaths as heat exposure, including heat exhaustion.

snow removal— but if you do choose to use a shovel, she recommends pacing yourself and using a “pushing or sweeping” motion instead of heavy lifting.

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Recent research has shown that cold exposure accounts for nearly twice as many cardiovascular deaths as heat exposure.(iStock)

To protect against the cold, Sobti also recommends covering your mouth, nose and extremities, wearing a hat and gloves, and using extra caution in windy conditions.

Using an automated snow blower can still raise the heart rate — up to 120 beats per minute, compared to 170 while shoveling, the American Heart Association states on its website.

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It is also important to be aware of any symptoms of a potential cardiac issue while shoveling, Sobti emphasized.

If a person starts to experience warning signs such as chest pain,shortness of breath, a racing heart or palpitations, those should not be ignored.

Follow her on Twitter@amymcgorry.