Do You Use the Internet to Self-Diagnose Illnesses? (1 in 4 Get It Wrong)
SodaHead Living
2012/04/22 22:22:35
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We admit it. Sometimes we too turn to Dr. Google to try to self-diagnose illnesses. It’s quick, free, and often far less embarrassing than going to the doctor. But according to a recent study, we may be doing ourselves more harm than good.
A British study, which focused on females, found that individuals facing unexplained health problems were twice at likely to consult the Internet than go straight to the doctor. Unfortunately, it is difficult to get an accurate diagnosis by typing symptoms into a search engine. (Anyone who has spent some time on WebMD will know what we’re talking about.)
According to the study, one in four misdiagnosed themselves entirely. One in ten women endured unpleasant side effects as a result of their misdiagnosis. A fifth had at some time wrongly suspected that they had a serious disease. While for many others, symptoms that seemed relatively harmless were left untreated and developed into something more serious.
A British study, which focused on females, found that individuals facing unexplained health problems were twice at likely to consult the Internet than go straight to the doctor. Unfortunately, it is difficult to get an accurate diagnosis by typing symptoms into a search engine. (Anyone who has spent some time on WebMD will know what we’re talking about.)
According to the study, one in four misdiagnosed themselves entirely. One in ten women endured unpleasant side effects as a result of their misdiagnosis. A fifth had at some time wrongly suspected that they had a serious disease. While for many others, symptoms that seemed relatively harmless were left untreated and developed into something more serious.
On a certain level, it seems fairly obvious that we should put our trust in real health care professionals instead of the Internet. However, things like long wait times for appointments, rising health care costs, and negative experiences with doctors, often make Dr. Google far more appealing. Another huge barrier is sheer embarrassment.
Three quarters of those polled said that there are some health issues they do not feel comfortable discussing with friends or family. Half of the women admitted that they always try to deal with embarrassing medical problems on their own before seeking help from others. Over a quarter said they dread talking to doctors about such problems.
What about you SodaHeads? Do you use the Internet to self-diagnose illnesses?
Read More: http://theweek.com/article/index/226999/dangerous-...
Top Opinion
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FordCrews 2012/04/23 15:33:52Yes, sometimes.
What I do do is I will look up my meds and see what side effect they have so I know what to look for if something happens.
Don
Also, you'll notice I don't live in the same country as you. -_-''