LA CROSSE, Wis. — Some do it for the challenge of chasing down the big game. Others do it as part of a family tradition. And others do it to enjoy being outdoors one last time before winter. Whatever the reasons, many families and friends have been, or soon will be, taking part in hunting season.
While hunting can be a great way to do all those things, and even get in some fresh air and exercise, it also can pose some dangers to those who are not fully prepared for the escape.
“I am a hunter and always need to remind myself to lead by example when I’m in the woods,” says Eric Grube, D.O., an emergency medicine physician at Mayo Clinic Health System in La Crosse. “Hunting can be a sport for all to enjoy. But we need to make sure that time outdoors isn’t spoiled by some unfortunate accident.”
Among the most common medical emergencies in hunting are heart attacks, injured backs and broken bones. Hunters unaccustomed to strenuous hikes involved should take several breaks to rest.