I wear one that notes an allergy to morphine, but my PCP suggested that MS be added because he feels that if I was unable to communicate in an emergency, that my symptoms could be confused with other conditions.

He said that the abnormal reflexes alone could lead to unnecessary diagnostic procedures and interventions in an ER, but that I could also be mis-assessed as being under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

How about you? Do you wear a Medic Alert that says MS?

With love, Erika

I definitely do. I've had a Medic Alert bracelet since 1980. It never comes off. It says "multiple sclerosis - diabetes not on insulin" and then gives my blood type.

I agree with your doctor. You don't like to think about those falls and other emergencies that might happen, and maybe you'll never have any of them, but with a definite diagnosis of MS, a bit of precaution wouldn't be a bad idea.

Hmmmm, never thought about it....until now. Thanks.

I never really thought about it. My PCP has recommended one for other reasons and I know I really should wear one for my allergies (especially to Sulfa drugs and Penicillin as they could actually kill me). But, I never thought of wearing one for MS. Thats a good suggestion.

I used to wear one - but not for MS. When my platelet count was dangerously low, my doctor told me I had to wear one, just in case I was in an accident, or if I was taken to hospital for something and they decided to give me warfarin/aspirin or some other blood thinner (which would be disastrous).

My ITP sits at a moderate, not severe level now, so I don't worry about it. Wearing it for MS does sound like a good idea though - especially since I am JC+ and on Tysabri. might mention it to my Neuro at my next appt.

Thanks

After thinking about it some, it does sound like a good idea.

The thought of an ER doc reacting to a positive Babinsky reflex, lack of sensation (numbness), and/or unequal pupil dilation, while not knowing that it is due to MS, is concerning.

I ordered a new neck chain and bracelet that notes MS, as well as the allergy to morphine.

With love, Erika

I should have one. I am allergic to sulpha drugs, penicillin, demerol, and now, iodine. That, along with MS and high blood pressure (controlled) makes me a potential nightmare in a medical emergency.

It really does sound as though most of us should probably have one.

My doc said that if I ended up in the ER and was unable to communicate, because of my reflexes, pupil reactivity and spasticity, that I might be subjected to a CAT scan &/or X-rays of the head (unnecessary radiation) for stroke or head injury, and/or be put on a 'Cinderella Protocol' (for drug/alcohol use/overdose).

Wiz, with so many allergies, you really should have one. What if they thought that you had meningitis or something, and gave you an AB that you are allergic to? Or chose to do a CAT/MRI with an iodine based radio-isotope?
It could be disastrous.

With love, Erika

yes, i've had 1 for yrs.
there's enuf room to say MS, hypertension, diabetes, etc.

i also got a pink crystal bead bracelet for brst Ca. it's prettier than just the plain bracelet. i use medic alert.

and, for the exact reason you said. if you're in an accident and taken to the hospital the staff can call the emerg # and get your whole hx and the name and #'s of your drs etc.

I was on the medic alert website and it looks like you need to have a plan with them too so medical personnel can call the toll free number to get your medical info. Is that what you all have? It looks a bit pricey, along with purchasing the jewelry.