Should You Wear Medical ID Jewelry?

I used to believe that medical ID bracelets were only for older people, but my perspective shifted after witnessing a fellow photographer collapse at a football game.

Medical ID jewelry for people with type 2 diabetes

It was a scorching Texas day, and everyone assumed he was suffering from heatstroke or dehydration. However, a paramedic was checking his pulse and saw that he was wearing a medical ID necklace, identifying him as having diabetes. The medic immediately informed the other medics of the photographer's diabetes.

This incident made me realize how crucial it is for people with diabetes to wear medical ID jewelry. If the photographer had not been wearing his necklace, the medics may have wasted time attempting to determine his ailment. This could have been dangerous, especially given his unconscious state.

Why should someone with diabetes wear medical ID jewelry?

I have type 2 diabetes, so I decided to order a medical ID bracelet after witnessing what happened to the photographer. I want to ensure that first responders will immediately know what is wrong if I ever have an emergency.

Medical ID bracelets and necklaces can also help prevent misdiagnosis and unwanted medication interactions. The symptoms of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) and high blood sugar (hyperglycemia) can mimic other severe conditions, so first responders must be aware of your diabetes.

I encourage you to get a medical ID bracelet or necklace if you have diabetes. It is a simple way to protect yourself and ensure you get the most suitable care in an emergency.

Who should consider wearing medical ID jewelry?

Anyone can benefit from wearing a medical ID bracelet or necklace, especially people with the following conditions:

  • Medication or food allergies
  • Diabetes, heart disease, epilepsy, or asthma
  • A rare medical condition
  • A speech impediment or developmental disability

Medical ID jewelry could also be beneficial to those who have devices like pacemakers or defibrillators implanted in the body.

What information should medical ID jewelry include?

Medical ID jewelry should include the following information:

  • Name
  • Date of birth
  • Allergies
  • Chronic illnesses or conditions
  • Implanted medical devices
  • Medications you are taking
  • Emergency contact information

You may also want to include information such as your blood type, religious affiliation, or do not resuscitate (DNR) status, if applicable.

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Where can you get medical ID jewelry?

You can buy medical ID jewelry from many vendors, such as pharmacies, online retailers, and medical supply stores.

If you want to avoid buying a medical ID bracelet or necklace because it's too expensive, you can make your own! You can find many creative ideas on Pinterest and jewelry-making videos on YouTube.

With the ability to buy accessories and engraving machines, you can make your own. Whichever option you choose, know that medical ID bracelets can be trendy, stylish, and fashionable.

Medical ID jewelry is a safety tool

Overall, medical ID bracelets and necklaces are a valuable safety tool for people of all ages and health conditions. As a person with type 2 diabetes, I wear a bracelet and necklace. I recommend owning one if you or someone you know has a chronic medical condition.

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This article represents the opinions, thoughts, and experiences of the author; none of this content has been paid for by any advertiser. The Type2Diabetes.com team does not recommend or endorse any products or treatments discussed herein. Learn more about how we maintain editorial integrity here.

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