Medicine, Misinformation & Dr. Google:Who Can You Trust?
As seen in STROLL The W of Wedgewood, Woodbury.
In today’s digital world, information is everywhere. With just a few keystrokes, anyone can find answers to their health questions. Podcasts, blogs, social media posts, and wellness websites all promise quick solutions and helpful advice. For many of us, searching online is a first step before (or even instead of) seeing a physician.
While this access to information can be empowering, it can also create a problem. Not all health information online is accurate. Even well-meaning advice can be misleading, especially when it is not based on science or tailored to your individual needs. This creates confusion, and in some cases, leads people to delay necessary care. In a community like Wedgewood, where people are often proactive about their health, the challenge is not whether or not to look for information online. It is figuring out what sources to trust. Here are a few ways to stay informed while protecting your health and peace of mind.
1. Prioritize Evidence Over Anecdote
It is easy to be drawn to a personal story. Perhaps someone cured their fatigue with a supplement, or reversed a diagnosis with a diet change. These stories can be powerful, especially when told with confidence and emotion. However, one person’s experience is not proof that the same approach will work for you. Instead of focusing on what worked for someone else, I recommend looking for patterns backed by research. Trusted health organizations study thousands of patients across different backgrounds to understand what is most likely to help, and what might cause harm. When reading health advice online, ask yourself, “Is this just a story, or is there broader evidence behind it?”
2. Check the Source
Some websites are more reliable than others. Well-known institutions such as the Mayo Clinic, Cleveland Clinic, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and National Institutes of Health (NIH) offer health information that is carefully reviewed by medical professionals. These sites do not try to sell you a product or promote extreme solutions. Be cautious with sources that do not list who wrote the article or where the information came from. If a site feels like an advertisement or makes big promises with little explanation, it may not be trustworthy. Always ask, “Who wrote this, and why are they sharing it?”
3. Stay Curious, Ask Questions
It is a good thing to be curious about your health. Bringing questions to your doctor’s office can lead to better care and more informative conversations. However, no website or video can replace the guidance of someone who knows your medical history, and can help you sort through the noise. A trusted physician can help you make sense of what you read and direct you to sources that are accurate, clear, and specific to your needs. In the end, health is not just about gathering information. It is about understanding how that information can be applied to your uniquesituation, and help you live a healthier life.
