Though our world has certainly seen its fair share of natural disasters in recent years, it seems like wildfires, tornadoes, and hurricanes are happening more frequently. Knowing that there’s a potential for disaster is one thing, but taking the time to make the proper preparations and have a plan of action to ensure your safety and security is another. If you experience chronic pain, then you have an even taller mountain to climb. Here’s what to know.
Defining Chronic Pain
First, let’s explain the idea of chronic pain and how it interconnects with disasters around the country. Chronic pain is typically described as discomfort and pain that goes on for over three months. You may not be hurting every moment of every day, but it is a pain that comes back continuously and never really goes away.
It is important to remember that you don’t need to have an extreme fall or get into a car accident to have chronic pain. While that can certainly happen, there are other factors that may or may not be out of your control that can result in your constant discomfort. There are several possible contributors to chronic pain. For instance, if you are overweight, then you could frequently experience hip and lower back discomfort and joint stiffness. If you have poor posture and you don’t have it corrected, then over time, you could feel continuous muscle tension or back pain.
There is also the chance that you may have a disease you have little to no control over, like Lyme disease, shingles, or cancer. Each brings its own type of continuous pain, though understanding the source of pain is always a useful first step.
Why You Need To Plan
If you experience chronic pain, then know that you are not alone. In fact, over 50 million people in the U.S. describe having some type of chronic pain condition. Clearly, many people with chronic pain live in states where there are disasters every year.
For instance, in California, over 25% of people have diabetes and almost 50% have hypertension, both of which can cause continuous pain. California is also infamous for its issues with wildfires. Since 2013, over two million households have been affected, and many of those undoubtedly belong to people with chronic conditions. Odds are that those who suffer with chronic pain will be impacted by natural disasters, too.
Gather What You Need for Your Specific Condition
Those who deal with a chronic condition often see specific doctors and take essential medications to keep their pain in check and improve their overall health. The issue with a disaster is that when they happen, especially in a large area, there tends to be limited access to medical providers and medication because so many people need help. That is why part of your plan needs to include collecting large quantities of the particular medical supplies that you will need if things go sideways.
Start with your medications. Although you may be limited on how much medication may be prescribed at a time, as a general rule, try to have at least a 10-day supply available at all times. That may be enough to get you through until you can get medical attention or replace your prescription. Make sure to keep your medication in a safe place that is protected from moisture and heat. Leave everything in its original containers and keep the information about the drug and the pharmacy safe and protected in case you need to reference it later. It is important to keep all necessary medical documentation in one place or make copies and put them in your emergency kit that you can access at all times.
It is also important that you look into mobile devices and other equipment that you can use to monitor your vital signs if a disaster does strike. That way, you can keep an eye on your health and get help if you need it. Since the power may go out during a disaster, make it a habit to charge all of your devices at all times. [Editor’s note: many people in Florida are finding out how crucial backup power is.]
Buy a power bank and put it in your emergency kit. If you require anything specific, like a wheelchair, scooter, oxygen generator, or anything clearly crucial, make sure that those items are gathered and ready as well. And if they can be non-electric versions, keep those on hand for emergencies, too.
Can You Treat Your Own Conditions?
While you may not be a medical professional, you should take some time to learn a bit more about your condition and determine if there are any injuries that you can treat on your own if you can’t find help elsewhere.
At the very least, if your condition could potentially lead to a sprain or broken bone, then you should know how to ice the area, compress the injury, and elevate the sprained area. Or, if there is a chance that you could fall and get a cut, then you would want to learn how to put pressure on the wound, add an antibiotic ointment, and bandage the area. This is basic first aid and is something everyone should know.
This is also why it is essential that you pack an emergency kit that you can find and take with you in a moment’s notice. You could even keep one in your car, though extreme temperatures will degrade medications. This kit should have all of the medications you need and anything specific to your condition. Plus, it should have the basics, including bandages, gloves, gauze, Aspirin, and emergency blankets among other necessities.
It’s Also About Relationships
The last thing that anyone wants when a disaster strikes is to be alone. A fire, earthquake, or sudden hurricane can be very frightening, and you need to have someone on your side so you can work together to get through the event safely. This is especially important if you have a chronic condition because if the pain becomes unbearable or you sustain an injury and you can’t take care of it yourself, then having a friend who can help you could make all the difference.
This is something that you need to begin to work on before a disaster strikes. In addition to forming stronger bonds with your family and friends, you can start to make meaningful relationships in your community to enhance preparedness. It is important to make connections with those in your neighborhood because then you can turn to each other when times get tough. Even so, you can still count on neighbors to watch your house when you are out of town and warn you if an unsavory character is wandering around the neighborhood.
Once you’ve identified a willing neighbor, you can continue to strengthen the relationship by asking questions about their life to build a deeper relationship or by supporting them in a time of need. Even dropping a general word of encouragement here and there can make people very happy.
You never know when a neighbor may really warm up to you, and if they do, then you can consider talking with them about your chronic condition. Ask them if they would be willing to help you if an incident does occur, and teach them what they need to know in advance.
[Editor’s note: It would also be useful to contact your local city or county emergency services and asking if they have a list you can get on where they’ll check on you or help you evacuate should a disaster arise. You may not qualify, but it never hurts to ask.]
Create an Emergency Food Supply
It is important that everyone have a food supply ready in case of an emergency, keeping your specific condition in mind. For instance, if you have diabetes, then you will want to avoid foods that are rich in carbohydrates. Eating too much can result in higher blood sugar, which can make your condition worse. If that is the case, then you will want to pack plenty of foods that can keep you healthy and provide the energy you require. That means a lot of fruits and vegetables, proteins, low-fat dairy, and whole grains.
Store all of the extra food and water safely in a pantry that can stay dry and cool throughout the year so you can avoid mold and bacteria. If you live with a chronic condition, then you may need to take extra precautions for your particular ailment.
Sometimes, when we experience chronic pain, it can be hard to get up and get around, but if you are in a disaster situation where movement is key to your survival, you will want to account for your ailment. That is why it is important to store foods that can provide natural energy, like yogurt, lentils, brown rice, avocados, eggs, and healthy snacks like cashews or almonds. Have these foods ready because they may give you the essential boost that you need to get out of a dangerous situation.
Be Proactive and Stay Healthy
The worst part about a disaster is that you usually never see it coming, and that can be quite jarring. The need to leap into action can be hard if your chronic pain holds you back. For that reason, you should start to get yourself in good shape with preventive measures that are recommended for your particular ailment, if possible.
Ultimately, if you take care of yourself now, then you will be better protected against the unexpected. If you are unsure what you should be doing or you want some advice and tips that you can use in the case of an emergency, then talk to your primary care provider.
Create an Evacuation Plan
All disaster plans need to include an evacuation route and a strategy for escape if your home is compromised during an event. That means assigning a spot where your family should meet, setting up the best pathways to get there, and determining when you should shelter in place instead of evacuating. If your chronic condition requires you to use a wheelchair or another mobility device, then plan accordingly. That might mean having a ramp installed on the front and back of your house if you don’t already. If possible, keep your emergency kit near the door at all times so you can grab it immediately, or just keep it in the car. [Editor’s note: keep bags out of sight or risk someone trying to steal it. Just a few weeks ago, my wife had a lunch bag stolen from her car; broke the front window just end up with a turkey sandwich.]
It is also a wise idea to wear a bracelet that identifies your condition and any special care instructions that may be required. This bracelet will come in handy if you are evacuating with a large group of people and you require individualized attention.
No doubt, it’s crucial to prepare in advance if you experience chronic pain. Consider the tips and information discussed here and have peace of mind that you are putting yourself in the best position possible.
[Note: This was a guest post.]
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