A lot of health information on the internet is false and prejudiced. Learn more about the benefits and drawbacks of medical websites before relying on a symptom checker.
The majority of Americans use the Internet to look for health-related information, and a third of them try to self-diagnose their symptoms based on what they find there. Thankfully, there are a multitude of trustworthy web resources providing accurate, up-to-date medical data. These websites can assist you in researching your medical concerns, understanding treatment options, and generating right decisions regarding your health. On the other hand, there is a lot of inaccurate, incorrect, and highly dangerous content on the Web. Make sure to investigate the reliability of any symptom checker or medical website before using it. Even so, make sure you follow up with your primary care provider to get a proper diagnosis.
Pro: Health-related websites can help you identify and understand your medical condition.
Knowledge is a powerful tool. For basic information about our medical issues, most of us rely on the Internet and mobile health apps. Online medical sources that are trustworthy provide general, easy – to – understand information on symptoms, treatment alternatives, and common results. When used correctly, web research can assist you in proactively identifying a medical issue, treating it over the counter, and empowering you to make informed health decisions.
However, you should always think of online health information as a starting point for your therapy. If over-the-counter remedies are effective, a web search can save you money. If your symptoms do not improve immediately, you should contact your doctor, and in an emergency, you should get medical help quickly.
Pro: Emotional Support Can Be Found in Online Health Forums
Many people with chronic illnesses benefit from online support groups, which can be incredibly helpful for those suffering from “invisible” conditions such as lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, and multiple sclerosis. Because you don’t have any evident physical signs, your friends and family may not comprehend your everyday struggle. Sharing your experience with others might bring consolation and aid in coping with your problems. These organizations can also keep you informed on clinical studies, new treatment options, and other aspects of your health.
Cons: Nothing tops your doctor’s specialized advice and treatment.
While studying your symptoms online, this can help you uncover probable medical disorders, your doctors (and agencies like the Social Security Administration) would never use a self-diagnosis to determine your treatment plan or eligibility for disability benefits. When you see a doctor, he or she will base your diagnosis and treatment recommendations on the following:
- Your symptoms have been reported.
- Objective clinical findings (such as MRI, x-ray, and clinical examination information)
- Medical research and guidelines are available.
- Your medical history and lifestyle are both important to know.
While medical artificial intelligence is continually evolving and improving, it will never be able to replace your doctor’s expertise. Still, eRemede helps connect doctors to their patients more efficiently.
Even if you cannot come and see your doctors personally to answer your questions and concerns right away, HIPAA-compliant apps such as eRemede includes an “Ask the Doctor” chat feature so doctors and patients can communicate in real-time, directly through the app with privacy and security.
They certainly care about your health and well-being, but they are always on the move, trying to meet with all of their patients in a timely, caring, and courteous manner. As a result, having this kind of app balances the demand for knowledge.
If you require additional time with your doctor, you may wish to:
- Book a longer appointment and ask your doctor ahead of time about your concerns.
- Ask your doctor if there are any workshops, support groups, or other resources available to assist you learn more about your disease. eRemede also features a library of resources that patient can access to provide more helpful information to them.
Con: Unwanted anxiety can result from online health research.
When you search for terms like “nausea,” “fatigue,” “abdominal discomfort,” and “sore joints,” you’ll come up with a wide range of diagnoses, ranging from minor concerns to life-threatening diseases. When using an online symptom checker, you may find it difficult to rule out these differential diagnoses, which can lead to heightened worry, dread, and anxiety. Regrettably, there is a well-established link between anxiety and pain. Your anxiety may intensify your pain and other symptoms.
When you check your symptoms online, it’s easy to anticipate the worst, but don’t be alarmed if your symptoms match those of a dangerous ailment. Instead, seek the help of a qualified medical professional. Your doctor can help you sort through your symptoms, diagnose your problem, and treat it appropriately. And, given that common people can only attain a 34% accuracy rate when using internet symptom checkers, chances are you’re in good health.
Cons: It’s not always easy to spot “fake news.”
There is a wealth of health information on the Internet, but most of it is erroneous, obsolete, and prejudiced. There are numerous health resources available on the internet, including:
- Advocates of alternative or holistic medicine
- Pharmaceutical and biomedical firms
- Medical and hospital organizations
- Government-run health-care organizations
- Non-profit organizations
- Professional organizations
- Research institutions
However, if you want to have the best information that is secure and coming from your doctors. You should schedule a demo with us since we can assist providers in pre-loading the eRemede Patient Engagement Platform with important patient education content such as articles and videos.
Individual patient needs/procedure types can be modified by doctors using digitized instructions, and patients can also access a broader resource collection. This gives patients access to critical information, particularly that which is most relevant to them. This resource library puts all of the relevant information at the patients’ fingertips.
