Hunters suffer fatal heart attacks while dragging heavy deer, state department reports

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

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

"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," he told Fox News Digital.

"When 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."

"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 embolisms."

The "sudden surge of adrenaline" when the deer is sighted and shot can also increase the risk of ventricular arrhythmias and sudden cardiac death, the doctor added.

"Strenuous hiking also places a 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 a "very strenuous amount of work," he cautioned, which can lead to overheating and strain.

Serwer offers the following health tips to reduce cardiac risk when hunting.

"Stay hydrated, avoid alcohol and tobacco, and dress appropriately," Serwer recommended. It's also best to dress in layers to better handle changing temperatures and activity levels.

Carry a phone to ask for help if needed, and ensure that someone knows where you are and when they should expect you back, the doctor suggested.

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

Fox News Digital reached out to the Michigan DNR for comment.