Wisconsin's nine-day gun deer season starts this Saturday. For so many, it's a family tradition.
At Dr. Scott Weslow’s office at Aurora BayCare, patients can’t help but notice his hunting trophies.
As an avid hunter, and interventional cardiologist, he wants to make sure all hunters are ready for the hunt -- not with gear or the perfect spot -- but heart healthy.
“People worry about the dangers of being shot in the woods, but you’re three times more likely to die of a heart attack out there,” said Dr. Weslow.
So why is that?
“They maybe have a sedentary job, live a sedentary lifestyle, and don't exercise,” he said.
During the nine day hunt, it might be the most activity they're getting all year long. They walk out to the woods, climb a tree stand, see a deer and shoot.
“When you see a deer, your heart rate can double in 30 seconds,” said Dr. Weslow.
And then when you get a deer -- the real work begins -- carrying the carcass back to your car.
“I've been there, I deer hunt, and I can tell you, that's probably the hardest thing you can do physically,” he said.
Dr. Weslow explains it's important to do a mock stress test before hunting, making sure your heart is strong enough.
“You may get a symptom like shortness of breath, jaw pain, left arm pain,” he said.
Then it's time to get checked out.
He has some tips for someone who might be at risk for a heart attack.
“We recommend hunting in groups, letting people know where you're going to be hunting, have a cell phone and know your area well,” said Dr. Weslow.
And remember, women don't have the classic symptoms of a heart attack like men do, so know your body.
More Tips:
-Avoid a heavy breakfast before heading out into the woods.
-Don't hunt alone.
-Bring a cell phone to reach emergency services if needed and make sure friends or family know your location and scheduled return.
-Make plans and get help from friends or family for hauling your trophy buck.
Warning signs of a heart attack:
-An uncomfortable pressure, fullness, squeezing feeling.
-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.
If you notice any symptoms, you should call 911 immediately.
