Several hunters suffer heart attacks while dragging heavy deer

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

The three men, who were in Arenac and Tuscola counties, were ages 57, 65 and 83, according to the report.

Two of the men were transporting large deer when they suffered cardiac arrest.

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Michigan's firearm deer hunting season began Nov. 15 and will continue through Nov. 30, according to the state's Department of Natural Resources (DNR).

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

Deer hunting is known to be a potentially dangerous activity for people with heart disease, according to Dr. Bradley Serwer, cardiologist and chief medical officer at VitalSolution, a Based in Cincinnati company that provides cardiovascular and anesthesiology services to hospitals nationwide.

“The act of hunting deer usually involves walking up to a tree or cover, waiting in the cold for hours, then dealing with a sudden rush of adrenaline when a deer is spotted ” he told Fox News Digital.

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“Once a hunter hits a deer, he must follow it, often a long distance, over rough terrain,” he continued.

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

Specific risks for hunters

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

“Exposure to cold increases the risk of abnormal heart rhythms, particularly ventricular arrhythmias that can cause sudden cardiac arrest,” he said.

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

“Exposure to cold also increases the risk of developing deep vein thrombosis, which can then cause pulmonary embolisms.”

The “sudden rush 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 of hunting include exposure to cold, adrenaline rushes and physical exertion, a cardiologist said.

“Strenuous hikes also put strain on the cardiovascular system,” Serwer said. “If the hunter is not in good shape, this strain may be too much to bear.”

Dragging the deer to the vehicle is also “very hard 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.

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1. Maintain good physical condition.

“Stay in shape initially so your body is better equipped to handle the workload required to track and trail 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 manage temperature changes and activity levels.

“The act of hunting deer usually involves walking up to a tree or cover, waiting in the cold for hours, 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.

Carry a phone to call for help if needed and make sure someone knows where you are and when to expect you, the doctor suggested.

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4. Follow your treatment.

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

5. Be friends.

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

Fox News Digital has contacted the Michigan DNR for comment.