What happens if your blood sugar drops and you become confused or pass out? Or you're sick, and your blood sugar skyrockets and you become confused? Or you're in an accident and unconscious?

In any of these cases, you wouldn’t be able to communicate your condition. Medical identification provides important information for first responders. It may prevent confusion on the part of a paramedic or police officer as to whether the confused state is related to a medical condition rather than intoxication and help you get the appropriate treatment.

The American Diabetes Association® recommends that all people with diabetes wear a diabetes medical alert identification bracelet, especially if you're on a diabetes medication that can lower blood sugar and cause low blood sugar reactions (hypoglycemia).

Yes, they used to be ugly—but today there are hundreds of options to choose from. Check with your pharmacist for information on available products.

Tips to remember:

1. Medical identification bracelets should be visible and recognizable. Don’t get something that will be easily confused with other jewelry.
2. It should say you have diabetes and (if you are on insulin) that you take insulin.
3. Be sure to also carry an identification card that includes your name, emergency contact phone number, your doctor’s phone number, and the medications and doses you're taking.
4. If you wear a pump, add "insulin pump" to your medical identification (and consider including the brand).
5. First responders may not look in your personal belongings for a card with your medical information, so wearing a visible identification is more likely to protect you than only carrying a card.