GRAND RAPIDS, MI (WKZO AM/FM) — With Michigan deer hunting season beginning this week, the American Heart Association wants all hunters to hit the woods safely.
The AHA is urging them to take some time now to learn how healthy their hearts are, taking into account their current our blood pressure and cholesterol levels, all which are factors directly reflecting heart health.
According to an American Heart Associated study, the heart goes through more strain than it does during exercise on a treadmill.
Healthy planning tips include avoiding a heavy breakfast before heading out into the woods and to avoid hunting alone. Bring a cell phone to reach emergency services if needed and tell friends or family your location and scheduled return. Also, make sensible plans for moving any game taken. Hunters are also encouraged to tell friends and family of their hunting locations and to carry a cell phone in case of an emergency.
Because heavy lifting, hiking and the overall physical activity of hunting can put a strain on any hunter’s heart, the American Heart Association encourages hunters to know the warning signs of a heart attack and stroke.
Heart attack signs:
An uncomfortable pressure, fullness, squeezing.
Pain in the center of the chest that lasts more than a few minutes, or goes away and comes back again.
Pain that spreads to the shoulders, neck and arms and is often accompanied by lightheadedness, sweating, nausea and shortness of breath.
Stroke signs:
A sudden numbness or weakness of the face, arm or leg.
Sudden dizziness and loss of coordination.
Slurred speech.
Severe headache.
Both heart attack and stroke are medical emergencies and 911 needs to be called immediately.
For more information on cardiovascular disease visit Heart.org.
