MARQUETTE, Mich. (WLUC) – With fresh snow here across Upper Michigan, many will be outside trying to shovel and clear their driveways. But before you head out, you should know if you are safe from a heart attack before shoveling.

Marquette Medial Urgent Care Dr. Shawn Brown says your family history plays a big part in your risk of having a heart attack. She says you should also keep your age in mind as well.

“Everybody over the age of 40 is at risk for cardiac disease,” Brown explains. “Even younger than that for folks who have a substantial family history of cardiac disease. But men over the age of 40, and women over the age of 50 are particularly high risk.”

Brown says if you are outside and experience chest pains, to call 911 immediately, and take aspirin if you have it.

Aspirus Cardiology Nurse Practitioner Melissa Wendell says the cold is another factor you need to keep in mind.

“Cold weather really causes the vessel to constrict and actually clamp down,” Wendell said. “So, when your vessels clamp down from the cold weather, that really increases your heart rate, and your blood pressure as well.”

Wendell says to try and break up your time shoveling snow. Since we experience heavy snowfall in the U.P., she says many people try to go out and shovel it all at once, increasing their chances for a heart attack.

If you are someone who experiences chest pains or shortness of breath while performing physical activity, you should look into resources and groups that can shovel your snow for you.

If you believe you are at risk for a heart attack, both Wendell and Brown say you should talk to your doctor as soon as you can.

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