Why is it that if parents are discouraged from searching for medical advice online, the internet was created in the first place? Many parents have played the role of “armchair doctor” at some point when it comes to their children’s health. After all, what’s the point of Google if not to compare your child’s rash to countless images online (and, of course, watch videos of cats knocking things off tables)? However, a recent study suggests that searching for symptoms online may do more harm than good.
Research conducted by the National Association of Pediatricians indicates that looking up symptoms can create uncertainty between parents and healthcare providers, potentially resulting in delayed diagnoses. The study revealed that when parents Google their child’s ailments, it can diminish their trust in medical professionals, leading to hesitance in accepting a doctor’s diagnosis.
The study involved 1,385 parents with children under 18. Participants were presented with a scenario describing a child suffering from a rash and a worsening fever for three days. They were split into two groups: the first group was shown information about scarlet fever symptoms, while the second group received information on Kawasaki disease—a rare condition requiring urgent treatment. A control group received no online information.
After being informed that a doctor diagnosed the child with scarlet fever, 90.5% of participants in the first group trusted the doctor’s diagnosis. In contrast, only 61.3% in the Kawasaki disease group expressed trust in the physician’s assessment. The control group, which had no online information, showed an 81% trust level in the doctor.
Ruth Milanaik, the lead author, noted that while the internet can be a valuable source of information, it can also disrupt the doctor-patient relationship. “The internet is a powerful information tool but is limited by its inability to reason and think,” Milanaik explained. This can lead to misguided interpretations of symptoms, prompting parents to doubt their doctors and seek second opinions, which may delay necessary treatment.
Parents should definitely feel empowered to seek second opinions if they have concerns, but it’s also important to have open discussions with healthcare providers about any online information they may have encountered. The internet offers a wealth of information, but it can also lead to confusion.
For those interested in enhancing their knowledge about home insemination, check out this post on intracervical insemination. Additionally, for authoritative guidance on fertility, visit Make A Mom. Lastly, the Cleveland Clinic’s podcast on IVF and fertility preservation provides excellent insights for prospective parents.
In summary, while the internet can be an insightful resource, it’s crucial for parents to rely on medical professionals for accurate diagnoses. Using online information to supplement conversations with healthcare providers can lead to better outcomes for your child.