Cardiologist talks danger of shoveling

SIDNEY, Ohio (WDTN) - Doctors warn shoveling snow can be hard on your heart. 

Cardiologist Rehand Ahmed said people who are over the age of 40 and have had previous health problems are most at-risk for a heart attack during activities such as shoveling.

"Men and women are equally at-risk," said Doctor Ahmed, who works at Sidney Cardiology.  "They just have different symptoms or warning signs."

Dr. Ahmed said general warning signs a person needs to stop shoveling are chest pain, chest pressure, shortness of breath, or fatigue. 

"Women generally experience fatigue, shortness of breath, and light headedness.," said Dr. Ahmed.

The Cardiologist suggests people who are shoveling take frequent breaks and remove snow in layers.

"Snow can be very heavy," said Dr. Ahmed.  "Its very easy for people to over exert themselves and not even realize it."