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Several hunters suffer heart attacks while trailing heavy deer
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Several hunters suffer heart attacks while trailing heavy deer

At least three deer hunters in Michigan have died of heart attacks this hunting season, according to local reports.

The three men, who were in the provinces of Arenac and Tuscola, were 57, 65 and 83 years old, the report said.

Two of the men were supposed to be hauling heavy deer away when they went into cardiac arrest.

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According to the state’s Department of Natural Resources (DNR), Michigan’s firearm deer hunting season began on November 15 and runs through November 30.

Deer hunting is known to be a potentially dangerous activity for people with heart disease, according to Dr. Bradley Serwer, cardiologist and physician-in-chief at VitalSolution, an Ingenovis Health company in Cincinnati that provides cardiovascular and anesthesiology services to hospitals.

White-tailed deer

At least three deer hunters in Michigan have died of heart attacks this hunting season, according to local reports. (iStock)

“Deer hunting typically involves walking up to a tree stand or blind, waiting in the cold for hours and then experiencing a sudden rush of adrenaline when a deer is spotted,” he told Fox News Digital.

“Once a hunter hits the deer, they must follow the deer, often for a long distance over rugged terrain,” he continued.

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“If the deer is found, it must be transported back to a vehicle. This usually involves dragging a 100- to 200-pound animal over varied terrain.”

Specific risks for hunters

Prolonged exposure to the cold is a primary risk, Serwer warned, because it can increase blood pressure and cause constriction of blood vessels in the arms and legs.

“Cold exposure increases the risk of abnormal heart rhythms, especially ventricular arrhythmias that can cause sudden cardiac arrest,” he said.

Deer hunter

Deer hunting is known as a potentially dangerous activity for people with heart conditions, according to a cardiologist. (iStock)

“Cold exposure also increases the risk of developing deep vein thrombosis, which can then cause pulmonary embolism.”

The “sudden surge of adrenaline” when the deer is sighted and shot can also increase the risk of ventricular arrhythmias and sudden cardiac death, the doctor added.

Risks when hunting include cold exposure, adrenaline rushes and physical exertion, a cardiologist said.

“Strenuous walking also taxes the cardiovascular system,” says Serwer. “If the fighter is not in good condition, this strain can be too much to bear.”

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Hauling the deer to the vehicle is also a “very strenuous amount of work,” he warned, which can lead to overheating and strain.

5 safety tips for deer hunters

Serwer offers the following health tips to reduce heart risk while hunting.

1. Make sure you are in good shape

“Stay in baseline shape so your body is better equipped to handle the workload required to track and trail the deer,” he advised.

2. Be prepared for weather conditions

“Stay hydrated, avoid alcohol and tobacco, and dress appropriately,” Serwer recommended. It’s also best to dress in layers to better cope with changing temperatures and activity levels.

Deer hunter

“Hunting deer usually involves walking up to a tree stand or blind, waiting in the cold for hours and then dealing with a sudden rush of adrenaline when a deer is spotted,” a cardiologist told Fox News Digital. (iStock)

3. Stay connected and share your location

Take a phone with you to call for help if necessary, and make sure someone knows where you are and when he or she can expect you back, the doctor suggested.

For more health articles, visit www.foxnews.com/health

4. Continue taking medications

“Remember to take your medications before hunting, especially aspirin if prescribed,” Serwer said.

5. Make a friend

If possible, experts recommend hunting with a partner who can help transport the deer.

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Fox News Digital reached out to the Michigan DNR for comment.