After This Week’s Snowfall, I Need to Say This
Walking into the clinic this week and seeing driveway after driveway buried in snow reminded me of something important: the connection between snow shovelling and heart attacks. Snow shovelling isn’t just a winter chore we all complain about—it can be a real health risk. Every winter, clients tell me they pushed through chest tightness, dizziness, or exhaustion while shovelling because they “just wanted to get it done.”
And every winter, the research shows what I see in real life: the combination of cold temperatures and intense physical exertion creates a perfect storm for the heart.
After the snowfall we just had, this message matters more than ever.
What the Research Shows
The 2017 CMAJ Study: A Clear Pattern
A 2017 study published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal (CMAJ) found that when snowfall reached 20 cm or more, men experienced:
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15% higher risk of heart attack–related hospitalization
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30% higher risk of death from a heart attack the following day
These numbers hit close to home because these are the people we see outside every winter—often older men, often rushing to clear the driveway before work.
Ontario Study: Shovelling Directly Linked to Heart Events
Another Ontario study found that 7% of 500 acute heart events during the winter were directly linked to snow shoveling.
And while men over 55 are at the highest risk, anyone with cardiovascular risk factors—high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, or a sedentary lifestyle—is more vulnerable in these conditions.
Why Snow Shovelling Is So Risky
Snow shovelling is often the most intense activity many people do all year, and they jump into it without warming up or pacing themselves.
Physical Stress on the Heart
Shovelling causes a rapid spike in heart rate and blood pressure. For someone who isn’t regularly active, this sudden workload can overwhelm the cardiovascular system.
Cold Temperatures Make It Worse
Cold weather constricts blood vessels, making it harder for the heart to pump blood. This alone raises cardiovascular stress—add heavy lifting on top of it, and the strain multiplies.
The “Perfect Storm” Combination
Cold + heavy exertion + rushing through the job creates the exact conditions that increase heart attack risk.
A Personal Note: I’ve Seen the Warning Signs
Over the years, I’ve had clients come in after shovelling and report things like dizziness, nausea, unusual fatigue, or chest tightness—symptoms they brushed off as “just the cold.” These are real warning signs.
This is why I want to share these reminders, especially after a big snowfall. Your health should never take a back seat to a clean driveway.
How to Reduce the Risk:
Take It Slow
Break the job into sections. Frequent breaks give your heart time to recover.
Push Instead of Lift
Pushing snow puts far less strain on the heart and lower back compared to lifting and throwing.
Warm Up First
Even 3–5 minutes of movement helps prepare your muscles and reduce shock to the system.
Stay Hydrated
Cold weather masks dehydration, but your heart still needs proper fluid levels.
Shovel Fresh Snow When Possible
Light, fresh snow is much easier and safer to move. Packed or icy snow is significantly heavier.
Listen to Your Body
If something feels “off,” stop immediately. Your body gives you signals for a reason.
Ask for Help
This is not a sign of weakness. For anyone with heart risk factors—or anyone over 55—asking a neighbour or hiring a snow removal service can be the safer choice.
Closing Thoughts: Your Health Comes First
Every winter, we see the same pattern: people rush, push their limits, and ignore the warning signs because they want to get the job done. But your heart doesn’t understand the urgency of a snowy driveway.
After this latest snowfall, give yourself permission to slow down, shovel smart, and protect the health that allows you to show up for everything else in your life.Winter chores can wait—your well-being can’t.
Written by Chelsey Torrance
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