Wearing a Medical ID Bracelet after Stroke…
27th May 2022
Stroke Stats
Approximately 800,000 people have a stroke each year, about one every 40 seconds. During a stroke, the brain does not receive enough oxygen or nutrients due to a blockage or leak in an artery, causing brain cells to die. Strokes happen fast, with little warning, and are life-threatening. The faster a stroke is diagnosed and treated; the chance of brain damage can be minimized. The three main kinds of stroke have different causes and different treatments. The most effective way to prevent a stroke is maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
We know you’re already doing everything you can to take care of yourself and informing yourself on your new condition. Wearing a medical ID bracelet while taking blood thinners for at least 3 months should be one of the first steps you take to staying safe.
Knowledge is power
The main symptoms of stroke vary from person to person. Symptoms include:
- Confusion
- Headache
- Numbness
- Visual Trouble
- Co-ordination
An easy way to remember this is the acronym, FAST.
- Face Drooping
- Arm Weakness
- Speech Impairment
- Time to call 911.
Treatment
Coumadin and Warfarin are common blood thinners prescribed to treat blood clots that cause stroke, heart attack, or other serious conditions. Blood thinners can cause complications for people:
- With High Blood Pressure
- 65 years or older
- Have had trauma
- Have low blood count
- With Kidney problems
- And More
If blood thinners are taken with other medicine, this could be life threatening.
That makes including your medications on your Medical Alert Bracelet imperative!
- Ischemic strokes (caused by a narrowing/blocking of arteries to the brain)
- Hemorrhagic strokes (caused by blood vessels in and around the brain bursting or leaking)
- Transient ischemic attacks (“mini-strokes”)
What Should I Engrave?
- Condition and Co-conditions
- Allergies, Medications taken for an extended period of time (especially blood thinners)
- Name
- Emergency Contact Number
If you run out of room or have medications that change, add the line “see wallet card” and keep an updated wallet card with important medications and alternative emergency contact numbers. Always ensure that you or your loved one is wearing a blood thinner bracelet, especially before leaving the house. Wear the bracelet where it can be spotted easily and avoid taking it off.