A sudden pain, an unusual symptom or an unfamiliar term on a test result can be enough to spark curiosity. In such situations, the first instinct is often to look for answers online. According to Google, one in every 20 searches on its platform concerns health. Although this access makes it easier to find information, it can also result in mistaken interpretations, as not everything published online is safe or scientifically supported.
“Within medical practice, it is increasingly common to see patients arrive at appointments with a diagnostic hypothesis already formed from online research. In many cases, looking for information ends up heightening anxiety. This is because search engines may link simple symptoms to serious illnesses, leading patients to believe they have a far more severe problem than they actually do,” warns Inês Bissoli, doctor and intensive care unit coordinator at Badim Hospital.
Risks of self-diagnosis
The dangers of self-diagnosis extend beyond excessive worry. “Believing incorrect information can delay seeking medical care and, as a result, delay the start of appropriate treatment,” the doctor warns.
Seeing a doctor is therefore essential to prevent complications. “With illnesses such as cancer, diabetes and high blood pressure, for instance, early diagnosis makes all the difference to controlling the condition and maintaining the patient’s quality of life. When symptoms are ignored or misinterpreted, the condition may progress silently and cause serious complications,” adds Inês Bissoli.
When online research challenges medical guidance
Healthcare professionals face another difficulty when a patient arrives convinced of a diagnosis and is reluctant to follow medical advice. “In some circumstances, they may decline additional tests because they consider them unnecessary, or challenge a medication prescription because they believe they have found a better solution online. At these times, dialogue becomes essential. The doctor-patient relationship is built on trust, and an open conversation that clarifies doubts and explains the reasons behind each course of action is crucial to ensuring safe and effective treatment,” says Badim’s intensive care unit coordinator.
It is also common for patients who have consulted different specialists without receiving a definitive explanation for their symptoms to turn to the internet for answers. Although this response is understandable, it does not replace a clinical assessment. Every individual has their own characteristics, specific health history and personal needs, all of which can only be fully evaluated by a qualified professional. Whenever there is uncertainty, a persistent symptom or a change in the body, medical advice remains the best answer.
Reliable sources help distinguish information from misinformation
Although it requires caution, online research can be useful when approached critically and focused on trustworthy sources. “When undertaken using reliable sources, searching for information can help patients understand their condition more clearly, take a more active role in treatment decisions and attend consultations with more specific questions,” the doctor says.
She advises seeking information from reliable databases and sources, including recognised health institutions such as the Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (Fiocruz), reputable pharmaceutical laboratories, research centres, medical schools and public bodies.
How to identify trustworthy online health information
“These are reliable websites that generally provide high-quality content based on scientific evidence. The problem lies in the vast amount of information circulating online without technical grounding, often presented in an alarmist and sensationalist manner,” she concludes.
By Alessandra Eckstein
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