Health
Medical Alert Jewelry: A Life Saving Fashion Statement
By J. Terrence McDermott

No one really wants to be labeled as "different." And certainly, no
one wants to create that label and apply it to him or herself. But
many medical conditions require some form of identification
indicating that such a condition exists and must be considered in
the case of an emergency. Thus, millions of people with hundreds of
medical conditions must advertise that fact simply to protect
themselves. For many, jewelry is the chosen medium.

Fact: Up to 15% of the population of the United States could
experience a life-threatening reaction to foods, drugs, insect bites
or latex.

Fact: Many diabetics suffering from hypoglycemia (low blood glucose)
have been mistakenly identified as being drunk.

Fact: Over 400 Americans die annually from an allergic reaction to
penicillin.

Given these and many more related statistics, the need for proper
medical identification is critical. But in an image conscious
society, clunky bracelets or dog tags may offend the fashion
sensibilities of some while the overt labeling of medical conditions
may be threatening to others. That is why manufacturers of medical
jewelry are looking for a balance between the necessity of clear
communications and a desire for attractive accessorizing.

It would be easy to hide identification for a medical condition in a
wallet or handbag but in an emergency a visible and obvious message
will assist medical personnel to make fast and accurate
assessments.  Jewelry, by its nature, is an adornment designed to
flatter and draw attention to its wearer. A 10KT or 14KT gold or
sterling silver charm, pendant or locket that also spotlights
medical data can be quite attractive while helping to avert a
tragedy.

Teens can be especially sensitive to their appearance and to the
opinions of other teens. They can also be more apt to take risks
because of these concerns. A young diabetic or epileptic may be
willing to compromise their safety by avoiding the use of
identification, even in the form of attractive jewelry, if they feel
it makes them look "un-cool." There are some jewelry pieces however
that can gain the proper attention, if necessary, without
appearing "dorky."

Delicate ankle bracelets with a dangling charm or a small engraved
plate are very acceptable jewelry accessories for teen girls. Lovely
beaded bracelets are also fun, decorative and fashionable and will
complement any style rather than compete. Boys can also accessorize
discretely with a sports wristband band or handsome watchband. These
pieces can be as simple or elegant as the wearer wants and many
manufacturers produce medical jewelry with a keen eye on fashion and
style trends. 

No one should be embarrassed or ashamed because they have a
particular condition. That doesn't mean that they should be forced
to broadcast that condition to the world by wearing identification
that is unattractive and obvious. Medical personnel are trained to
look for medical I.D. and jewelry, no matter how discreet, and these
pieces will be one of the first places they will look for medical
info. Anyone with medical issues has a responsibility to themselves
and to their family to provide the information that will protect
them if they are unable to properly communicate. But they can still
look sharp at the same time!

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