Amid the deer season, three Michigan deer hunters recently lost their lives in a week. While the tragic incident has left everyone disturbed, many are looking for answers to the sudden deaths of the hunters. It has been alleged that heart attacks could be the cause behind the deaths.
Fox News has reported that the men who died were aged 57, 65, and 83. They were found in Tuscola and Arenac counties of Michigan. Per officials, the three suffered heart attacks as they dragged heavy deer to their vehicles after hunting them. However, doctors have also said it is strange that three deaths occurred in a week.
Dr Bradley Serwer, a cardiologist, and VitalSolutin's chief medical officer revealed the reasons behind the degraded health conditions of the Michigan deer hunters.
"The act of deer hunting typically involves hiking to a tree stand or blind, waiting in the cold for hours and then dealing with a sudden surge of adrenaline when a deer is spotted."
Serwer continued that hunting a deer is a stressful exercise as it also involves walking or running for a long distance in order to track the animal. After shooting the deer, hunters have to take a 100-200 pound animal back to their vehicles by crossing a varied terrain.
"Cold exposure increases the risk of abnormal heart rhythms, particularly ventricular arrhythmias that can cause sudden cardiac arrest," Serwer added.
Upon having an adrenaline rush, hunters face an increased risk of sudden cardiac arrest. Moreover, hiking can also cause strain on the cardiovascular system.
The cardiologist said that hunters can reduce this risk by staying in shape for such a tedious activity. Moreover, staying hydrated and avoiding the consumption of alcohol can also help these Michigan deer hunters.
Mayo Clinic reacts to the sudden deaths of three Michigan deer hunters
According to Boing Boing, the Mayo Clinic also shared similar reasons behind the deaths of Michigan deer hunters. The report claimed how excitement of hunting the animal and dragging it is exceptionally stressful on the heart.
The clinic has also advised people to know the warning signs of a heart attack so they can ease the severity of an attack. The body itself sends signals when it starves for oxygen, but most people do not act on these symptoms.
Some of these signals are uncomfortable pressure, fullness, squeezing, or pain in the chest for more than two minutes. As the pain spreads to the neck, arms, or shoulder, one should seek medical assistance immediately. Sweating, nausea, and dizziness can also be symptoms of a heart attack.
Hunters are also advised to always carry a cell phone with them to call 911 during such emergencies.