Medically reviewed by Cynthia Taylor Chavoustie, MPAS, PA-C — Written by Anisha Mansuri
Noticing any new or changing symptoms may cause you to feel worried or scared. Many people search online for their symptoms to help ease their concerns and find quick reassurance. However, this can have the opposite effect and result in health anxiety from inaccurate health advice.
Many healthcare professionals recommend against searching online for your symptoms, as it can be too easy to fall down a rabbit hole of worst-case scenarios that can cause unnecessary fear.
Still, some people Google their symptoms because they want to feel informed and well-prepared for their doctor’s appointment. This can be particularly true if they are trying to get a diagnosis or have previously experienced medical dismissal.
If you have searched online for your symptoms, you need to inform your doctor. This can help them better understand your concerns and talk with you about the information you have found.
Why is it helpful for a doctor to know?
If you have googled your symptoms, it’s important to let your doctor know, as this can help them better understand your concerns. It can also create space for you to discuss the information you have found, allowing the doctor to rule out any misinformation and instead provide you with accurate medical advice.
Speaking with a doctor about information you have found online can also allow for a collaborative approach when deciding on a treatment plan. It can help you feel prepared for the discussion and ensure you have an active role in your healthcare.
You also need to inform a doctor about any online recommendations you have followed. This can help them understand what treatments or strategies you have already tried and how effective they have been. It can also help them assess any potential risks if you have used an unsafe or unprescribed treatment.
Remember, it’s important to be honest with your doctor. The information you share will always be kept confidential, unless a healthcare professional believes you are at risk of harming yourself or another person.
What are the drawbacks to googling your symptoms?
Healthcare professionals generally advise against searching for your symptoms online, as it can lead to misinformation and unnecessary health anxiety.
Drawbacks to searching for your symptoms online include:
- Inaccurate self-diagnosis: When searching for the causes of your symptoms online, you may encounter misinformation that falsely leads you to believe you have a serious health condition, creating unnecessary fear and anxiety.
- Delayed care: Misinformation online may lead you to think that nothing is wrong, which can cause you to delay speaking with a doctor and, in turn, delay needed care for serious health conditions.
- Increased health anxiety: It can also lead to increased anxiety and fear. It may cause you to falsely believe that you have a serious health condition and need to seek out unnecessary tests or procedures.
- Lack of individualized care: Online health information can’t take into account your personal health history, such as preexisting conditions, and will not be able to give you an accurate diagnosis.
Are there any benefits to googling your symptoms?
In some cases, it may be helpful to research your symptoms or health concerns. This includes:
- Preparing for a doctor’s appointment: Taking some time to research your symptoms can help you form questions and consider desired outcomes before your appointment.
- Finding guidance for non-urgent issues: If a health issue is minor, you may not need to consult a doctor. Searching online may help you understand if your symptoms can be managed with a home remedy or self-care.
- Gathering general health information: Health information sites can be a helpful way to learn more about your symptoms or condition after a professional diagnosis.
You can also speak with a pharmacist about any minor health concerns if you’re unable to or would prefer not to make a doctor’s appointment.
The bottom line
If you have googled your symptoms, it’s important to let your doctor know, as this can help them better understand your concerns.
It can also allow you to discuss the information you have found, allowing them to rule out any misinformation and provide you with accurate, individualized medical advice.
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This article originally appeared here and was republished with permission.
