Winter already makes neurological symptoms worse. The cold slows nerve conduction, indoor heating causes dehydration you don't notice, and schedule disruptions throw off everything. Add in clinics running on skeleton crews (not Neura Health, of course), and you’re basically on your own from December 20th to January 2nd.

If you live with a neurological condition (or care for someone who does), this is the moment to get ahead of it. Here’s a simple, realistic checklist to help you feel prepared before inboxes go dark and clinics shift to holiday hours.

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Phase 1: The pharmacy sweep (Do this 2 weeks before holidays)

• Audit your pill bottles: Physically count your pills. Do not rely on the "auto-refill" date. Shipping delays are common in winter.
• Request "vacation override" refills: If you are due to run out on Dec 26th, ask your insurance/pharmacist for an early refill now to account for closures.
• Stock "rescue" meds: Ensure you have a full supply of your specific break-through medications (e.g., migraine abortives, steroids, muscle relaxers, anti-nausea meds).
• Check expiry dates: Look at EpiPens, rescue inhalers, or injectable medications that may have been sitting in the back of the fridge.

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Phase 2: The provider huddle (Do this at your last appointment or via portal message)

• Ask the "what if" question: "If I have a flare-up between Christmas and New Year's, what is the specific criteria for me to go to the ER vs. waiting for you to return?"
• Get the on-call intel: Ask exactly who covers the practice when they are closed. Is there an answering service? A covering partner? Write down that specific phone number.
• Pre-emptive paperwork: Ask for a printed copy of your most recent MRI report, bloodwork, or clinic notes. (If you end up in the ER, the attending physician likely won't have access to your specialist’s specific records).

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Phase 3: The "crash kit" prep (Home environment)

• Hydration station: Stock up on electrolyte powders/drinks. Dehydration is a major trigger for neuro symptoms in dry winter heat.
• The "low energy" pantry: Buy 5–7 days' worth of food that requires zero standing to prepare (protein shakes, microwave rice, soup, crackers).
• Power outage backup: If you rely on medical devices (CPAP, nebulizer) or refrigerated meds, do you have a battery backup or a plan if the power goes out during a snowstorm?

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Phase 4: The one-page ER "cheat sheet"

Create a single piece of paper to hand to an ER doctor who doesn't know you. It should include:

• A note with ER protocol from your primary neurologist.
• Your primary diagnosis (and any rare subtypes).
• A list of current medications (with dosages).
• A list of "never" medications.
• Name and phone number of your primary neurologist.

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Neura can be your safety net

Remember: You don't have to do this alone. Neura Health is available through the holidays.

When traditional offices go dark, our lights stay on.

• Need help getting organized? Book a visit with your Care Coach this week to get help prepping for the holidays and building your plan.
• Need a provider? Members can book video visits within days, even during the holiday season.
• Have a question? Reach out to your care team via in-app messaging for support when you need it most.