The American Diabetes Association® recommends that all people with diabetes wear a diabetes medical alert identification bracelet, especially if you're on a diabetes medication that can lower the blood sugar and cause hypoglycemia (low blood sugar reactions).

Hypoglycemic episodes can happen anytime just as any other form of medical emergencies which may or may not be related to having diabetes. Regardless of the type of emergency situation, emergency medical personnel are trained to look for a medical ID especially when caring for someone who can’t speak for themselves.

1. Diabetes medical ID can explain symptoms to respondents, police officers, and medical personnel – A drop in your blood sugar can make you feel confused, distressed, and even make you pass out. Unfortunately, these same side-effects are similar to alcohol or drug intoxication.
   
   Having a medical ID for diabetes instantly provides respondents on your condition and allows them to provide you with the proper emergency care that you need.
2. Diabetes medical ID ensures you get proper medical care – in emergency situations, time is always of the essence. The sooner respondents identify the cause of your symptoms i.e. low blood glucose reactions, the faster you can be treated.
   
   Your medical ID for diabetes will not only save time but your life.
3. Diabetes medical ID can give you peace of mind and allow you to enjoy life –being diagnosed with diabetes is not always easy but you will find how this condition, if managed properly, can allow you to live your life as usual or even better.

Diabetes does not stop patients from their passion of travel and adventure; just follow the American Diabetes Association’s travel tips including wearing your medical ID. Always ensure that you or your loved one is wearing a diabetes bracelet at all times and, especially, before leaving the house.

If necessary, pack an extra bracelet during special trips, particularly if you will be traveling alone or leaving town. Always wear the bracelet where it can be spotted easily and avoid taking it off. New styles and designs won’t cramp your style and it can mean the difference between living a healthy life and suffering major medical consequences.

“For more than 20 years, American Medical ID has served the diabetes community by offering stylish, custom-engraved bracelets and necklaces.” – American Diabetes Association. If you purchase your medical ID from us, 20% of your purchase will be donated to the American Diabetes Association to help support its mission and reach more people who are living with diabetes. This is part of the association’s Promotions that Give Back campaign which American Medical ID proudly supports.

Watch this vlog on why a medical ID is recommended for Diabetes. Brittany Gilleland is a Type 1 Diabetic of 17 years. She is the vlogger behind The Diabetic Journey, a global diabetes community advocating for Type 1 Diabetes with a goal of pushing the boundaries of awareness for a misunderstood disease.