ABC7 News recently did a story on cyberchondria, a condition where self-diagnosis of medical conditions using the Internet can cause anxiety and paranoia. Here is an excerpt:
More than 80 percent of Americans use the Internet to access medical information, according to a new report. But doctors say some patients are doing it obsessively…
The study found those who self-diagnose based on Web searches frequently conclude the worst-case scenario…
My advice for hypochondriacs and cyberchondriacs is to visit a real doctor. Getting a professional medical assessment and/or clean bill of health may go a long way towards putting your mind at ease.