Friday, December 25, 2009

Save Your Life With A Medical Alert Bracelet

By Susan R. Love

No one plans to have a medical emergency, but it is best to be prepared just in case something does happen. If you have a chronic illness or take prescription medication, wearing a Medical ID bracelet is the perfect way to help expedite treatment and avoid misdiagnosis during an emergency situation. Paramedics are also trained to look for a medical identification bracelet on all of their patients, so wearing one really is in your best interest.

Engraving your Medical ID bracelet is better than buying one that has been engraved with a single word, as the added personalization can increase the quality of your care. Be sure to include any prescription medications, chronic illnesses, and life-threatening allergies. For example, those who are severely allergic to peanuts or take insulin injections for diabetes should definitely wear a bracelet. Furthermore, the condition written on the bracelet is often the cause of the emergency. When it isn't, emergency medical professionals can manage that condition while treating any additional problems. If possible, add an emergency contact number to your bracelet so someone else can give an in-depth explanation of your medical history if you are unable to.

Caregivers should wear Medical ID bracelets, even if they don't have any chronic medical conditions themselves. This is especially important if the care-recipient can't seek help on his own. All caregiver's bracelets should include the caregiver's name, the care-recipient's name, the caregiver's relationship to the care-recipient, the care-recipient's needs, and who to contact in the caregiver's absence. For example, a bracelet could have, "I am a family caregiver. Jenny Friedman," engraved on one side and "Grandfather has dementia. Will need help. Contact 875-234-6874," engraved on the other.

Medical bracelets come in different styles and sizes for both men and women. Stainless steel bangles are a chic option that can easily blend in with several other bracelets. However, a trained professional is likely to notice the medical symbol. Charm bracelets are also popular, as are unique bracelets that have colorful beaded bands instead of the typical silver or gold chain. Men can try Medical ID bracelets that have leather or rubber straps.

Order a medical bracelet today. It can save your life or the life of someone you love. Plus, it's always comforting to know that you are prepared for an emergency.

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