Have you ever noticed that some people need a little extra help when going out for a walk, either by using a walking stick, frame, or wheelchair? Usually when you think of this, it’s usually older neighbors that come to mind. But what you didn’t know is that they might have Parkinson’s Disease.

In this blog, we will explain why wearing a medical bracelet for your Parkinson’s is beneficial and how it may save your life in an emergency.

But first ... What is Parkinson’s Disease?

Parkinson’s is a condition in which parts of the brain become progressively damaged over the years. It can be caused by a loss of nerve cells in the substantia nigra, which can lead to a reduction of dopamine in the brain. Dopamine plays a vital role in regulating the movement of the body and when it is reduced, mobility can be difficult. This is why the disease is mainly noted in older adults as it’s more likely to occur as we age. Read more on the causes of Parkinson’s.

There are over 40 symptoms of Parkinson’s, but this condition affects everyone differently. Not everyone will experience all the symptoms. Some of these include:

• Involuntary tremors
• Slow movement
• Stiff and inflexible muscles
• Depression and anxiety
• Balance problems
• Loss of smell (anosmia)
• Problems sleeping (insomnia)
• Memory problems
• Speech problems

Mayoclinic.org explains the symptoms in more detail.

How can a medical bracelet support you in an emergency?

Medical professionals are trained to look for a medical ID tag, so a bracelet or a necklace would be ideal as they are worn at your pulse points. They can include important medical information such as your medical condition, details of your medication and contact details in case of emergency. This ensures you receive the right treatment when needed, while keeping in touch with your family.

Do I need a medical bracelet if I have Parkinson’s Disease?

Helps you remember your medication.

Most people with Parkinson’s eventually need medication called levodopa, which is absorbed by the nerve cells in your brain and turned into the chemical dopamine, which is used to transmit messages between the parts of the brain and the nerves that control movement.

Since memory problems can be a factor of Parkinson’s, wearing a medical bracelet can be a daily reminder to take your medication to help with your mobility issues and reduce the risk of a fall. This information will also alert first responders of your condition so knowing which medication you take will help speed up treatment in an emergency.

Symptoms can be mistaken for a stroke.

Parkinson’s symptoms like stiff muscles, balance problems and trouble speaking are also common symptoms of a stroke. In an emergency, first responders might mistake your symptoms for a stroke and give you the wrong treatment.

Wearing a medical bracelet with the correct information on it can help them understand that your symptoms relate to your Parkinson’s and not a stroke, which in turn can give you the right treatment quickly.

Communicates for you when you can’t.

If your Parkinson’s has impaired your speech you may be unable to self-advocate, even if you are conscious and coherent after an accident. If you collapse in an unfamiliar area, those around you may rush to help, but if you’re unable to communicate then a medical bracelet will help them know what is wrong with you.

Wearing a medical bracelet with an ICE (In Case of Emergency) contact engraved onto it will give those assisting you a point of contact who can fill them in on your medications, diagnosis, and current treatment plan. It also enables your loved ones to be reached and get to you more quickly.

What should I engrave on my Parkinson’s Disease medical bracelet?

You may wish to include your name, details of any allergies and where to find your medication. Including these details is important as it ensures that medical staff can correctly identify your condition. This also means that any symptoms you are experiencing don’t get mistaken for something else.

As a guideline, your bracelet should say “Parkinson’s Disease” or simply “Parkinson’s” so it explains your symptoms when you cannot. We recommend that all medical bracelets or necklaces include a medical symbol. This means that if you become unconscious and are unable to communicate, those who check your pulse can find your medical alert bracelet and information about your Parkinson’s. Helping others to understand your condition means you can receive the right treatment, as symbols will attract the attention of medical staff.

The red tulip has been associated with Parkinson’s awareness since 1980 when a Dutch horticulturalist who had Parkinson’s Disease developed a red and white tulip and named it “Dr. James Parkinson”. In April 2005, the red tulip was launched as the Worldwide Symbol of Parkinson’s Disease at the 9th World PD Day Conference in Luxembourg. You may wish to choose one of our cord bracelets, so that you can match the colour of the cord to the red tulip symbol. Alternatively, you could choose one of our silicone wristbands, which we have in red. The choice is yours.

If you prefer not to have a medical symbol and to keep your medical jewellery discrete, please just ask and we will do this for you if we can.

Where to go for more support?

In the UK, 1 in 37 people will be diagnosed with Parkinson’s in their lifetime, which makes this the fastest growing neurological condition in the world. However, it is important to remember to look after your emotional wellbeing. Talk to others about how you feel and try to stay active and sociable. You may want to get involved with a local group to meet others who also have similar experiences to you. This can help you understand and cope with Parkinson’s better.

Check out supportive therapies for Parkinson’s.

Follow Phill Robinson on his Parkinson’s journey.

Find support through the charity Parkinson's UK

If you are living with Parkinson’s or caring for someone who is, then the NHS website has information on how to manage symptoms and take care of loved ones.

Parkinsonscare.org is a charity dedicated to helping those with Parkinson’s, where you can donate, volunteer and fundraise for events.

Helping someone you love manage their Parkinson’s is the best way to show your support. So, remember, you are not alone on this journey.

Conclusion:

Overall, if you have Parkinson’s Disease, wearing a piece of medical jewellery such as a medical alert bracelet allows you to feel safe if something were to happen to you. You can choose your own style, design and engraving to let others know you’ll be safe in an emergency. Equally, friends and family members are reassured by the knowledge they can keep in contact with you.

Have a browse of our full range of medical jewellery, or get in touch on help@butlerandgrace.co if you have any questions.

Stay connected for all the latest news and tips about medical jewellery. Sign up for our newsletter now to be one of the first to discover the best-looking medical alert jewellery, useful tips, and special offers. Plus, you'll get a free printable wallet card for your emergency contact information.