Do you turn to the internet for answers when you’re feeling sick or have an injury? If so, you aren’t alone! Many people in the United States seek health information online when they’re feeling under the weather or have an injury.
The trend toward self-diagnosis using online resources isn’t new. In 2013, a Pew Research Center survey reported that more than one-third of Americans had diagnosed themselves online. Today, that number is even higher. And according to ChatGPT, “Over 230 million people globally ask health and wellness-related questions on ChatGPT every week.”
While search engines and large language models (LLMs) like ChatGPT offer a convenient way to access information about health and wellness, turning to “Dr. Google” isn’t always a good thing. The information found in a web search may lead you to believe you have an illness you don’t have. Often, that "diagnosis" is more serious or scary than the actual cause of your symptoms. This phenomenon is known as “cyberchondria.”
Why People Self-Diagnose Online
Dr. Ibiyinka Ladapo, an internal medicine physician at University Health, says people turn to the internet to self-diagnose symptoms for many reasons. “For one, it’s easy to access. These days, you don’t even need a computer. You can quickly reference online resources from your smartphone or a tablet,” Dr. Ladapo says.
The internet offers you access to health experts from renowned medical organizations across the country and around the world, all from a screen visible in the comfort of your home, your car or at work.
Cost is another reason why many people seek medical information online rather than visiting a medical provider. High-deductible insurance plans, visit costs and excessive medical bills cause many people to avoid a medical visit whenever possible.
Pros of Self-Diagnosing with Google and AI
- Helps people stay informed about health and wellness
- Identifies potential causes of symptoms
- Helps you find the words to describe what you’re experiencing
- Validates your experience and feelings with stories or comments from other people and reduces stigma
Risks of Self-Diagnosing with Google and AI
- Some people delay treatment or attempt to treat themselves rather than seeing a doctor.
- There are many sources of misinformation and disinformation.
- Online results may lead you to believe you have a serious condition, causing unnecessary stress.
- Some people stop taking prescribed medications because an online resource led them to believe it was harmful.
- Online resources do not understand your full health history, which is necessary to make an accurate diagnosis.
Always take medications as prescribed by your doctor. Do not start or stop medications without consulting your care team first.
How to Use Google and AI Search Engines Wisely for Health Information
If you’re experiencing a health issue and turning to the internet for information, follow a few best practices.
- Make sure the resources you are referencing are reputable health organizations.
- The best health resources come from health systems, hospitals, governmental health organizations and nonprofit health organizations such as the American Heart Association.
- Use the information you find to start a discussion with your medical provider, but schedule an appointment to get an actual diagnosis.
Alternatives to Self-Diagnosing Online
The internet can be a helpful place to turn when you first start having symptoms or get injured, but your next steps can help you get an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan.
MyChart Patient Portal
University Health patients with a MyChart account can message their care team through MyChart. Signing up is easy and free.
NurseLink
University Health patients can call NurseLink at 210-358-3000 at any time to speak with a University Health nurse. Our nurses can help answer any medical questions you have and help you make an appointment with a University Health provider.
Telemedicine
When it’s time for a medical visit, you have options. An in-person medical visit is best when you need hands-on care, such as treating an injury or getting blood work. If you’re experiencing symptoms that can be easily diagnosed by description, a telehealth visit may also be an option.
The bottom line? Google and ChatGPT can give you information, but the diagnosis, evaluation and management plan will come from your health care provider.
Primary Care at University Health
Primary care providers at University Health can provide the most up-to-date care and refer you to a specialist if needed. We also offer telemedicine visits and urgent care clinics for your convenience.
Community Resources
Visit our Institute for Public Health website for health-related resources to learn more about the factors shaping health and find other community programs available to you.
