Medical IDs for Multiple Sclerosis

1. Why are medical ID bracelets are important for people living with Multiple Sclerosis?

2. Types of Multiple Sclerosis

3. Common Symptoms of Multiple Sclerosis

4. Medical IDs and MS in Emergencies

5. What should be engraved on a Multiple Sclerosis Medical ID?

6. Tips for purchasing a medical ID Bracelet or medical ID Necklace for MS

Why are medical ID bracelets are important for people living with Multiple Sclerosis?

A medical ID is recommended for all types of Multiple Sclerosis (MS). Multiple Sclerosis is an unpredictable disease involving the central nervous system. It affects the flow of information within the brain, and between the brain and body. A person diagnosed with any form of Multiple Sclerosis is at risk of disabling symptoms or life-threatening complications. Cognitive impairment, sensory impairment, and venous thromboembolism (VTE) are major complications of this lifelong disease.

Wearing a medical ID can alert others of Multiple Sclerosis to get fast evaluation and treatment in an emergency, even when a patient is unable to speak or becomes unconscious.

"Wear a medical alert tag or bracelet to indicate you have MS and any other health concerns." - National MS Society

Types of Multiple Sclerosis

A medical ID can quickly communicate the presence and type of Multiple Sclerosis that a patient has. As with any medical condition, it is important for emergency responders, doctors, and nurses to know about Multiple Sclerosis. A patient’s medical history including medications to manage a disease, can be significant factors in identifying safe & appropriate treatment in emergencies.

Clinically isolated syndrome (CIS)
Relapsing-remitting MS (RRMS)
Primary progressive MS (PPMS)
Secondary progressive MS (SPMS)

If you have Multiple Sclerosis, it's important to wear a medical ID bracelet at all times. You should also make sure that your family and close friends are aware of your condition and medication in case of an emergency.

Common Symptoms of Multiple Sclerosis

Depending on the type of Multiple Sclerosis, this life-long disease can affect individuals in different ways and can affect any part of their body. The most common symptoms of MS affect movement and vision.

Dizziness
Double or blurry vision
Electric-shock sensations
Fatigue
Numbness or weakness in or more limbs
Partial or complete loss of vision
Problems with bowel and bladder function
Slurred speech
Tremor and lack of coordination

Medical ID bracelets are important. If something serious were to happen to me, if I were to overheat for example, my dysarthria picks up. I can’t talk, I can’t communicate. Now I don’t have to stress - I just point to my wrist. On it are my diagnoses and on the back is my Full Name, DOB, and Emergency contact. Basically, all they'd need to admit me to a hospital." - Eliz Martin, The Sparkled Life

Medical IDs and MS in Emergencies

Symptoms related to Multiple Sclerosis like intense pain, immobility, or losing vision in both eyes are, signs of a potential emergency and require immediate attention. It is important to let healthcare professionals know about Multiple Sclerosis as soon as possible.

A medical ID can quickly identify a Multiple Sclerosis diagnosis, especially when symptoms like slurred speech, lack of coordination, and problems with bladder or bowel function can be mistaken for alcohol or drug abuse. A medical ID bracelet or necklace for Multiple Sclerosis can ensure that your medical condition is recognized in emergencies and that you get the safe and accurate treatment that you need. Wearing a medical ID can help avoid unnecessary MRIs, steroid treatments, and hospital admissions for MS patients too.

"Because MS patients have balance problems, they are often mistaken for alcoholics... It is recommended that the patient wear a bracelet with Multiple Sclerosis engraved on the back." - Multiple Sclerosis - Pathology, Diagnosis, and Management

What should be Engraved on a Multiple Sclerosis Medical ID?

Information engraved on a Multiple Sclerosis medical ID bracelet or necklace can be helpful to anyone responding to an emergency. An MS alert ID should contain accurate information that is easy to read, even in the most difficult situations when the patient is in extreme pain and incapable of sharing their medical history.

Wearer’s name
Multiple Sclerosis
Other medical conditions or allergies that may or may not be related to MS such as food or drug allergies, diabetes, or high blood pressure
Multiple Sclerosis medications or therapy that can carry additional risks
In case of emergency contacts

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Tips for purchasing a Medical ID Bracelet or Medical ID Necklace for MS

Since you’ll be wearing your medical ID every day, consider the following factors before deciding which medical ID bracelet or necklace is for you.

Bracelet vs. Necklace: the most common choice for a medical ID is a bracelet. Both options will protect you in an emergency, so select what is your preferred medical jewelry type to match your lifestyle.
Select the metal type and style you want for your medical ID. We offer many styles in stainless steel, sterling silver, titanium, gold-filled, and 14 Kt gold, so you can select the best option for you.
Add MyIHR (My Interactive Health Record) to your medical ID. MyIHR is an online health record you control with your latest health information, such as conditions, medications, emergency contacts, and much more. Supplement your custom-engraved medical ID with a complete MyIHR profile to include all the important details about your health for a first responder in an emergency or when you need to reference your information for a doctor’s appointment.

"It is hard to explain why, but when I put my ID on for the first time, I knew instantly I had made the right decision. Aside from the fact that it was gorgeous, I felt empowered with a new sense of security." - Debra Robert, Multiple Sclerosis patient and advocate