8 Reasons Why Online Medical Advice Can Be Dangerous (And What to Do Instead)

1. Dr. Google

Repeat after me: Google is a search engine, not a doctor. The internet is probably best used for searching for more information once you have been diagnosed, not for diagnosing the problem yourself. Don't rely on a web search to tell you what is, or may be, wrong with you. For reliable information, stick to sites like the Mayo Clinic which provide peer-reviewed content.

2. How Reliable is the Source?

Your health isn't something you should take for granted, and neither should you assume that a source of online medical advice is trustworthy. Government-funded sites or those provided by medical bodies are likely to be more reliable than those provided by someone without medical qualifications. Always look for the 'HONcode' seal or check the National Institutes of Health (NIH) for verified research.

3. Hypochondriac Heaven

The internet is a dangerous place for anyone obsessed with their health. The slightest symptom will have them frantically searching to identify their imaginary ailments, and they will convince themselves that they have all kinds of deadly diseases. Even those who are less obsessive can still end up incorrectly self-diagnosing. This can lead to unnecessary stress and anxiety, which is why maintaining habits for better mental health is so important.

4. Trained Experts

The internet can provide useful information but it is no substitute for a real doctor. When in doubt, consult a doctor – that's what they're for. A doctor can reassure you that you are fine, or order tests if necessary. Looking up medical advice online is not going to provide this.

Here is a quick comparison of what you get from a screen versus a professional:

5. Motives

When reading websites covering medical issues, you should ask yourselves this: Do they have an agenda? Many sites are funded by private companies, who see an 'informative' website as a way of advertising their products and services. It's good to take charge of your own health, but not if it means wasting your money, and maybe even taking dangerous advice. Be wary of sites that push specific "miracle cures" without clinical backing.

6. Same Symptom, Different Disease

Another problem with looking for medical advice online is that it can be confusing. Any one symptom can often fit many different conditions. So, again, it's best to see a trained doctor, who can examine you and make an appropriate diagnosis. For instance, what you might think are signs your period is not normal could actually be something else entirely that only a professional can identify.

7. Anxiety

It's not just hypochondriacs who should beware of looking for medical information on the internet. Articles and web pages can make you worry that you have some dreadful disease, just because something in it sounds familiar. It's most likely nothing to do with you. The World Health Organization (WHO) provides global health standards that can help you understand the broader context of health issues without the panic.

8. Downright Dangerous

The advice given on some sites may actually be dangerous, where the proponent is not medically qualified. This can be a risk with some people who are against conventional medicine. I'm all in favour of alternative medicine, where appropriate. Some people do not acknowledge that conventional alternatives may be necessary.

When searching, try to stick to these trusted sources:

Searching for online medical advice can be useful. It can provide a lot of relevant information, plus you can find out about charities and services. However, what you read online always has to be taken with caution, so use your judgement and don't rely on it as a substitute for proper medical care. Have you ever come across any online medical advice that was incorrect or even dangerous?