I google symptoms for things to ask my doctor. I've had far too many things either dismissed, or treated as something needing drastic diagnosis.
I've tried several doctors since my wonderful one I had in my twenties retired early. Every one I know complains about their doctors, so no referrals.
I do hate to see people ask online what things could mean, but they DO need to ask for possible questions. I feel medical care needs a lot of self direction
It's one thing to google various symptoms before going to see one's GP and using Google as a substitute for a doctor. Many people who have
anxiety/stress related disorders simply increase their stress levels by googling their symptoms. Medical science is complex and each and every specialist will have their own approach and theory on how to treat a patient.
Some doctors are far more experienced and better at their jobs than others. After all they are just human beings.
I don't know how the very complex US health care system works compared to over here. Can you ask to change a doctor is you're not
pleased with the care you receive ? Over here we can easily change our GP and also request a 2 nd opinion including that in a medical emergency centre.
I've also had my fair share of doctors that have overlooked symptoms and have not referred me to a specialist when needed. Since last year, I have switched to a GP who seems to be committed in giving high quality care and doesn't hesitate to refer me to a specialist when required.
I also agree that it's not always a good idea to ask for opinions on medical matters on line. The vast majority of people have no medical background and knowledge.
It takes multiple years to go through medical school and then receive training in either a university hospital or other set up before
a doctor will have a senior status. So thinking that Google is the answer to sorting out one's symptoms/illness is under minding medical science.
However, if a patient wants more knowledge and a better understand of symptoms/illness, It always better to view a government run site such as
NHS in the UK. This site gives out handy information and helps patients understand possible treatment and alternatives.
A few months ago(late evening ) I had sudden and severe pain in my abdomen and was debating on whether calling the emergency helpline, going to A&E or calling a GP. So, instead I googled up my symptoms and the answer was that I should
not go to A&E.
The following day, the pain had subsided but I decided to see a GP (mine was away) and she dismissed it as being acid reflux. The following day, I saw my own GP who referred me to a cardiologist and a gastroenterologist. The former said that if the same symptoms occur that I should immediately to to A&E as it could well be a heart attack. The latter said that I required to have a endoscopy and all the tests came back negative. So, nobody every knew why I had such severe pain.
The response from Google was incorrect and happily the outcome wasn't a disaster. All three doctors said that I should not have googled my symptoms.
Ask a doctor whether it's a good idea to Google one's symptoms and the response is certainly, no.