megram - Index

megram - 55NovOttawa - Index

The Scoop on Shovelling
Shovelling can put your health in danger
Judith Cousins, Public Health Nurse
Shovelling snow counts as a moderate
level of physical activity,but
it also contributes to an increasing
number of fatalities for those of us
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in middle age.A little knowledge may
help prevent a tragedy.
Most people do not warm up
before they begin shovelling.The sud-
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November/December 2008 • Ottawa 42 • Fifty-Five Plus Magazine
den demand placed on the heart by
this exertion is stressful for it. Within
two minutes of heavy shovelling our
heart rate and blood pressure levels
can be as high as those reached during
normal exercise. Pacing yourself can
prevent a lot of heartache in the end.
If you are over 40,overweight and
have associated risk factors such as
diabetes, heart problems or hypertension,
talk to your health care provider
before undertaking shovelling.
Extreme weather can also be a
problem by making it harder to
breath and putting more strain on the
heart.Taking it slow can help prevent
this. And to reduce the risk of
hypothermia and frostbite, remember
to dress in layers and keep your head
and ears covered.
Taking a common sense
approach to shovelling is the easiest
way to prevent injury. Avoid eating,
smoking and drinking caffeine before