Kitchener, ON — As heavy snow hits the region, local Emergency Departments are preparing for a spike in cardiac events. Dr. Al Qahwash PT, DPT, Director of the Regional Cardiac Program at Waterloo Regional Health Network (WRHN), warns that for many people, picking up a shovel can be more dangerous than it seems.
“Age, blood pressure, cholesterol, weight, stress, and family history all stack together to increase your risk of an exercise-induced heart attack. And like it or not, shoveling is exercise,” Qahwash explains.
“Every significant snowfall, we see an increase in patients with chest pain. We would never throw on a pair of running shoes and attempt a 10K without training, yet many of us grab a shovel without thinking. Your heart rate spikes, blood pressure rises, and cold temperatures cause blood vessels to constrict.”
To reduce risk, WRHN recommends the “5 S” Winter Safety Strategy:
- Stretch – Warm up your arms, back, and chest before starting.
- Shifts – Clear snow in smaller sections and take breaks often.
- Size – Choose a small, light shovel to avoid heavy lifting.
- Slow Down – Pace yourself; rushing increases cardiac strain.
- Signs – Watch for warning signs such as chest tightness, shortness of breath, or dizziness. Call 911 immediately for concerning symptoms.
Prevention for the Future
For individuals with recurring risk factors, WRHN’s PREVENT Clinic, powered by Manulife, offers comprehensive cardiovascular prevention for unattached and high-risk patients, including those with elevated cholesterol, diabetes, hypertension, or a family history of heart disease.
“Many people don’t realize they have these conditions,” says Qahwash. “PREVENT allows us to identify risk early, manage it effectively, and prevent future cardiac events. This proactive approach is essential to the long-term health of our community.”
To learn more visit heartandstroke.ca.
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About Waterloo Regional Health Network
Waterloo Regional Health Network (WRHN, pronounced wren) represents the merger of two Hospitals into a single, integrated healthcare organization. Built on over 90 years of partnership, WRHN is home to seven regional programs and comprehensive healthcare services to meet the current and emerging needs in Waterloo-Wellington and beyond. WRHN is redefining the healthcare experience through collaboration and innovation, addressing barriers to access, advancing care delivery, and setting new standards in compassionate, empowered, community-driven healthcare. At WRHN, every patient is at the centre of everything we do as we strive to improve lives, inspire healing, and build healthier, stronger communities.
Learn more at WRHN.ca.
Media Contact:
Cassandra Easton
Public Affairs Lead
Waterloo Regional Health Network
cassandra.easton@wrhn.ca
519-584-5548