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Snow Shoveling Sending Some To Local Hospitals

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Feb 8, 2010 8:46 pm US/Eastern

Snow Shoveling Sending Some To Local Hospitals

Reporting
Dr. Maria Simbra
PITTSBURGH (KDKA) ― On an ordinary weekend, Dr. Jeffrey Friedel , a cardiologist at St. Clair Hospital, might take one or two patients to the cath lab to open up their closed down heart vessels, but this past weekend was extraordinary. He had six.

"Typical story," he says, "shoveling snow, getting out there -- these are patients who may or may not be in good cardiovascular condition -- they get out there, they start shoveling, they get chest pain, shortness of breath. Fortunately, most of them sought medical attention quickly."

On the average Saturday and Sunday, about 15 people will be admitted with chest pain. This past weekend there were 30.

"We did have a few who did stay home for a while while they had symptoms, which isn't the thing to do. Once you have symptoms, you should call 911 or get to the emergency room right away," warns Dr. Friedel.

Unfortunately, not everyone made it.

"There were several patients who had a cardiac arrest at home while shoveling snow. They did pass away en route to the hospital," he says.

The cold weather causes your blood vessels to clamp down to begin with.

"You add to that heavy lifting, which will cause a sharp spike in your blood pressure. Add on top of that fatigue, stress and dehydration, and it's a perfect mix for having a cardiac event," says Dr. Friedel. "If you're elderly or you have a previous cardiovascular condition, do not shovel snow. Period."

Even if you are in good shape, take your time, take breaks and stay well hydrated.

With a hectic weekend, cardiologists are still catching up with about a dozen more caths on the schedule. With more snow expected, these heart doctors expect a very busy week.

(© MMX, CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.)

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