MANISTEE — Doctors have a health warning for hunters while they are out in the woods for firearm deer season. It comes after three hunters died of heart attacks last week, two while hauling away deer.
Dr. Charles VandenBerg at Munson Healthcare Manistee Hospital said health related issues are common during hunting season, especially when hunters who may not have been as active during the year are hauling heavy items like tree stands or deer around.
He said oftentimes, hunters are by themselves and far away from immediate help which is why it’s important to listen to your body and don’t overexert yourself.
“I think paying attention to, again, where are you going to be, what you’re going to be doing, making sure that somebody is aware of those things ahead of time and again, have somebody that knows what this is supposed to look like. I’m going to be back at such and such a time. If something isn’t making sense, they can go ahead and alert the appropriate authorities,” said VandenBerg.
VandenBerg said even if you don’t have health conditions, have a plan in place.
He said even something as simple as an unexpected strain can be a more serious problem in the middle of the woods, especially if you are alone.
He also added if you’re huffing, puffing and straining, you should take a break, reevaluate the situation, and re-assess if you should continue doing what you’re doing.