3-pound loss achieved by watching ….

3-pound loss achieved by watching what she ate. Pat Miller was speaker of the day, discussing the importance of knowing the difference between heart burn and a heart attack, and when to get help and call 911. Miller provided some examples of how these two issues can differ.

For example, after a large meal people can experience a burning sensation in their chest without knowing if it’s heartburn or a heart attack. Typical symptoms of heartburn include: a burning sensation that usually occurs when lying down or bending over, or the pain that may awaken people from their sleep. Usually, heartburn can be relieved by taking antacids.

Heart attack symptoms can include chest pressure and tightness, pain, squeezing or aching sensation in chest or arms, spreadable to the neck, jaw, or back, nausea, indigestion, heartburn or abdominal pain, shortness of breath, cold sweat, fatigue, lightheadedness or sudden dizziness.

For people at risk, it is advised to have baby aspirin in the house. According to statistics, women are more likely than men to experience additional symptoms such as jaw or back pain, shortness of breath, and nausea or vomiting. Heart attacks are more common among people who have high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, smoke or are overweight.

To determine the core of the issue when these symptoms occur the emergency room doctors may have to run some tests to rule out a heart attack.

Residents with persistent chest pain suspecting a heart attack can call a 24/7 Optum HealthCare Center nurse at 562-795-6216, who will be able to assist. If a nurse suspects a heart attack, he or she will advise a resident to call 911.

Member Sherry Ginsberg talked about her three-month long trip on a cruise ship around the world. And Joyce Brannon made everyone laugh by sharing a funny story.

The weekly food for thought was: “I am able to lose weight. I love to exercise, and I love my body. I am taking small steps towards my goal.”

—Jan Friedland