The Internet is a great thing. You can find out almost anything you want to know with just a few clicks. Who would have imagined it twenty years ago? There’s so much information it can make your head spin, but it’s so much easier than going to the library… or the doctor’s office.
Health is a hot topic right now and the Internet is full of all sorts of health information. Do you have a strange rash? Want to learn how to lower your cholesterol? How to prevent and treat diabetes? Google any health subject and you’ll get pages of results. Which is a good thing, because it means we’re all trying to take good care of ourselves. Using health websites can be very helpful to lots of people, but it’s important to know how to use them.
- Keep in mind is that not all sources are reliable. There’s a lot of misinformation out there, and some of it can be harmful.
- Even when you go to a reputable and reliable health site, make sure that the information is updated and current.
- Also be aware that most of the information, even when it’s accurate, is usually very general and may not necessarily apply exactly to your situation.
- It’s very important to use common sense; if something sounds a little wacky to you, don’t accept it at face value. Do a little investigating.
- There is no one website that is the total authority, either. You might have to visit a few places to learn what you need to know.
- Pay attention to who is running the website. It could be a company that wants you to buy its products. That doesn’t necessarily mean the information isn’t accurate, but it might be biased.
- But the most important thing you need to know about health websites is that they are no substitute for your doctor.
So do some surfing. What you learn might even help you have an intelligent dialogue with your doctor. Be an informed health consumer- it’s your body, after all- but be smart!