18 April 2012

Rise In Dr Google Misdiagnosis

One in four British women has misdiagnosed themselves on the internet, a study revealed yesterday.

Researchers found Dr Google is now the first port of call for women with genuine health concerns who are almost twice as likely to check online before consulting a doctor or even talking to Mum.

A trend towards trusting the internet over friends, family and medical professionals meant half of the 1,000 women studied would first try to treat an ailment themselves rather than risk embarrassment.

But searching their symptoms online and self-medicating has led a tenth of the country's women to endure unpleasant side effects as a result of their misdiagnosis.

The research, which was commissioned by feminine health brand Balance Activ, found a quarter of British women will trust the internet for advice on treatments if they find their symptoms embarrassing.

Penny McCormick, spokesperson for Balance Activ said: ''There is an increasing trend towards using the internet to diagnose any irregularities or worries we have about our bodies.

''The web gives us a wealth of information that can be useful in reducing our worries until we're able to gain proper advice from a medical authority if it's needed, but the results show how easy it is to make mistakes when diagnosing ourselves.

''It's important we learn which information to trust online and that we're able to make the distinction between what can be self-diagnosed and easily treated, and what definitely requires the help of a medical professional. What can seem like a relatively harmless but embarrassing symptom could develop into something more serious so it is important for women to ensure

they are asking the right questions and treating certain conditions effectively in the first instance.''

The report also found despite having diagnosed themselves online and decided

on a high street treatment, 45 per cent never check they are buying the right thing with a pharmacist or counter staff.

TOP 10 MOST COMMONLY MISDIAGNOSED

1. Breast cancer

2. Other forms of cancer

3. Thrush

4. High blood pressure

5. Asthma

6. Arthritis

7. Depression

8. Diabetes

9. Sexual health problems

10. Thyroid problems

TOP 10 SYMPTOMS WOMEN HAVE TRIED TO DIAGNOSE THEMSELVES

1. Sleep problems

2. Headaches

3. Depression

4. Anxiety

5. Muscle spasms

6. Stomach cramps

7. Chronic muscle pains

8. Severe fatigue

9. Itching

10. Skin sensitivity