GREEN BAY, WI (WTAQ) – Shoveling is a necessary task that follows any snowfall, and with it can come health concerns.
Family and Sports Medicine Physician for Prevea Health, Dr. Jeremy Metzler, says there are symptoms to watch for that might indicate you need to take a break.
“Any type of chest pain, shortness of breath or just feeling more fatigued than usual, especially if you develop any type of chest pressure where you feel like someone is sitting on your chest or a pain radiating to your neck or shoulder. That would be very suspicious of something going wrong of your heart.”
Metzler says it’s important to listen to your body and don’t be afraid to take a break while digging out.
“If you’re not used to doing something that strenuous, then you probably should have a neighbor help you or consider paying someone to come and move your snow.”
It also might be a good idea to do shoveling in shifts; once after a few inches has fallen and then more later on.
For more information on how to clear snow safely, log on to www.prevea.com.
