Dr. Google: Looking up your Symptoms the Right Way
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If the first thing you do when something is awry with your health is head to “Dr. Google” to figure out what’s wrong, you're not alone. Surveys suggest about 90% of patients Google their symptoms before calling or scheduling an appointment with their provider.
While looking up symptoms can be useful and sometimes ease anxiety, it can also be dangerous to your health and the health of those around you.
Cyberchondria, or, repeated, compulsive internet searches for medical info, can lead to worry, panic and the insistent of misdiagnosis.
Patients should be empowered with knowledge about their own symptoms for better dialogue with their healthcare providers.
If you find yourself logging into WebMD searching for answers, try these tips to protect against misinformation and cyberchondria.
Use reputable sites
Sites like WebMD, though helpful, are not always reliable for the most up-to-date information. Instead, start with the websites of major health organizations, universities and hospitals.
Be wary of blogs as they can be biased or offer misinformation. Brush up on studies done in the last few years using reputable databases and scholarly sources.
Here are some reputable sites for reference:
FamilyDoctor.org from the American Academy of Trusted Physicians
Check on how your research makes you feel
If searching for your symptoms is causing anxiety, stress or panic, step away and reach out to a medical professional who can help provide answers.
Keep track of any sources you want to discuss
While moving through your internet research, jot down or print any resources and material you find interesting or helpful to discuss with your healthcare provider. Your healthcare provider should be open to talking with you about any research you bring. Though they are experts in medicine, having a trusting relationship with patients means having an open mind and a listening ear to all their concerns.
Don’t focus on one diagnosis
Many illnesses, conditions and ailments can share similar symptoms and not all sources will agree on what those symptoms mean. Shift your focus from needing to find a definite diagnosis, to educating yourself and taking charge of your health.
Always follow-up with your doctor
Lastly, no matter what you find in your research, be sure to follow up with your healthcare provider. Family physicians and primary care doctors spend many years with patients following their lifestyles, habits, diets and more. These providers have lasting relationships with their patients and can tailor their healthcare needs.
After doing your research, make an appointment with your healthcare provider and have an open, honest discussion about your health, your concerns and what next steps look like on your health journey.
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At Campbell County Health, your family's health is our number one priority. Campbell County Medical Group Family Medicine offers healthcare for people of all ages in Northeast Wyoming. Schedule today with any of our excellent locations.
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Gillette, WY 82716
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307-688.2235
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Hulett, WY 82720
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307.464.0413
500 Latigo Dr.
Wright, WY 82732