A merry gang from the Cara Club enjoying the sunshine in Brighton.
Talking about heart attacks is not the most light hearted topic (pun intended), however knowing the signs can save a life! Many people think a heart attack is sudden, like a "movie" heart attack, where someone clutches their chest and falls over. But the truth is that many heart attacks start slowly as mild pain or discomfort. These feelings may even come and go. A heart attack is very serious and you should get to the hospital right away by calling 9-1-1.

For both women and men, the most common sign of a heart attack is pain or discomfort in the center of the chest. The pain or discomfort can be mild or strong. It can last more than a few minutes, or it can go away and come back. Women are more likely than men to have the "other" common signs of a heart attack. These include shortness of breath, nausea or vomiting, and pain in the back, neck, or jaw. Less common signs are excessive tiredness, heart burn and heart flutters. Sometimes the signs of a heart attack happen suddenly. But they can also develop slowly, over hours, days, and even weeks before a heart attack occurs.
 
The more heart attack signs that you have, the more likely it is that you are having a heart attack. Also, if you've already had a heart attack, your symptoms may not be the same for another one. Even if you're not sure you're having a heart attack, you should still have it checked out.
 
If you think you, or someone else, may be having a heart attack, wait no more than a few minutes — five at most — before calling 911. Do not drive yourself or let a friend drive you. You may need medical help on the way to the hospital. Paramedics are trained to treat you on the way to the emergency room. If you think you're having a heart attack, get emergency help right away.

Getting there quickly is very important. Treatments for opening clogged arteries work best within the first hour after a heart attack starts!
 
Lucky strike – The IPC goes bowling

The City of Boston Elderly Commission will host the Boston Senior Games; billiards and bowling, on May 10 at Boston Bowl, Dorchester. The IPC invites those interested in bowling to join us! Amateurs, ten pin connoisseurs and everything in-between are welcome to join us. Contact Eileen on 617.265.5300 for more information!
 
Please feel free to call Eileen at 617 265 5300 x 13 for more information on IPC Senior Citizen Outreach Program activities and services