Several hunters have heart attacks while hauling 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 located in Arenac and Tuscola counties, were ages 57, 65 and 83, the report said.

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

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

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

“Deer hunting typically involves hiking to a stand of trees or blind, waiting in the cold for hours, and then dealing with a sudden surge of adrenaline when a deer is spotted,” he told Fox News Digital.

“When a hunter hits the deer, they have to track the deer, often a long distance over rough terrain,” he continued.

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

Specific risks for hunters

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

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

“The 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 seen and shot can also increase the risk of ventricular arrhythmias and sudden cardiac death, the doctor added.

Risks of hunting include cold exposure, adrenaline surges and physical exertion, a cardiologist said.

“Strenuous hiking also stresses the cardiovascular system,” Serwer said. “If the hunter is not in good shape, this load can be too much to bear.”

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Dragging 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. Maintain a good level of fitness

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

2. Be prepared for the weather conditions

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

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 back, the doctor suggested.

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4. Stay current with medications

“Don’t forget to take your medication before hunting, especially aspirin if prescribed,” Serwer said.

5. Buddy up

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.