In today's digital age, it's common to turn to Google at the first sign of a headache or indigestion. While it may seem convenient, this practice often leads to unnecessary anxiety and confusion. Senior consultant and oncologist at Star Hospitals, Dr. Sainath Bhethanabhotla, cautions against relying on online self-diagnosis.
"Many people search for symptoms rather than the root cause of their problem," Dr. Sainath explains. "For example, a simple cough could be caused by various conditions, but a quick Google search might suggest something serious like asthma. Without the proper medical knowledge, you may end up misdiagnosing yourself."
The lack of context and filtering in search engine results can lead to generalized and often alarming conclusions. This, in turn, leaves patients anxious and worried about conditions they likely don't have. Furthermore, patients often look up their prescribed medications online, focusing on potential side effects without understanding that these are usually dose-dependent and carefully considered by their doctor.
Dr. Sainath also touches on the concept of drug repositioning, where certain medications can be used for multiple purposes. "For instance, some antipsychotic drugs are effective in controlling nausea and stimulating appetite in cancer patients during chemotherapy," he explains.
The Right Approach
Dr. Sainath advises that instead of turning to a machine-run search engine, it's crucial to consult a healthcare professional for accurate information. While Googling might be a hard habit to break, it's important to learn how to search correctly.
After consulting with a doctor, patients can use peer-reviewed and authorized medical websites like Uptodate, Medscape, NIH, and ICMR to further understand their condition.
Key Questions to Ask Your Doctor
Is the illness curable or manageable?
What are the success rates with the proposed treatment?
What are the possible side effects?
Are there alternatives to the suggested treatment?
What could happen if the treatment is not followed?
By focusing on these questions during consultations, patients can make more informed decisions about their health without falling into the trap of self-diagnosis.