Women's Life Link Be Well, Be Happy, Be YOU!
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The amount of available online information on any one topic would blow the socks off of even experts. But this is not necessarily a good thing. As much as good information flows through, there’s plenty of misinformation flowing as well. That said, we’re seeing a rise in people who believe that this information is strong enough to fully diagnose and treat whatever is ailing them. Here are a few dangers of Internet diagnosis and cures.
Dangers of Internet Diagnosis and Cures #1: It’s Easy to Get Deceived
The wellness industry is booming. There are a lot of people making products and tools that really help people take control of their health. Then there are those who use that market to simply make a buck, no matter what. One of the biggest deceptions online is companies creating the appearance of being legitimate scientific, health-based businesses. It’s important to do thorough research before buying into all that you read online. Sites like A Breath of Reason can be useful in separating truth from science fiction.
Dangers of Internet Diagnosis and Cures #2: Easy Health Is Appealing
There are a lot of products out there that claim to be the holy grail of health. They convince the weary that, by taking a couple of pills or drinking a potion, you can lose weight, purify your bodies, or cure diseases. But, the truth is, these “cure-alls” may be detouring vulnerable consumers from what they really need to focus on: creating a healthier lifestyle. The sooner we learn that there are no shortcuts, the better.
Dangers of Internet Diagnosis and Cures #3: It Leads the Reader
Hope for the best, prepare for the worst is a good tip. But it’s also a mental proclivity that can lead us to make some of the worst assumptions. Googling fatigue could make it seem like you’re just as likely to suffer from dangerous infections, anxiety and kidney disease as something much simpler like a vitamin deficiency. We don’t have the medical experience to use Occam’s razor and cut right to the most likely answer. Which only promotes a greater fear that our, otherwise, harmless symptoms are killing us. That doesn’t help anybody.
Dangers of Internet Diagnosis and Cures #4: Websites Don’t Know You and Your Story
Self-diagnosis and treatment may work in some cases, but it should never replace the advice of your healthcare professional. The owners of blogs and product sites want to sell things. They tend to only reveal the best reviews and that which sheds a positive light on what they are selling. Furthermore, they do not have a clue about what medications you are on, what your medical history is, or what your health goals are. A simple supplement has the ability to interact with medication and cause adverse side effects. Because that information isn’t usually included in the sales copy, anyone can be at risk.
The Internet can be your friend, but it shouldn’t be your doctor. Though it’s not a bad idea to be informed on topics regarding your health, use wisdom when adopting new practices or taking products. Always check with your physician before starting any new products or therapies.
**** This post is strictly informational and is not meant to replace the advice of your health care provider. Women’s lifelink, it’s owners, administrators, contributors, affiliates, vendors, authors and editors do not claim that this information will diagnose, treat, or improve any condition or disease.
