KEY POINTS
- Cyberchondria occurs when frequent online symptom searches lead to heightened anxiety and unnecessary fear of serious illnesses.
- Many people turn to online symptom checks because of convenience. Some may feel embarrassed or afraid of being judged when discussing symptoms with a doctor. Cost and time play a major role, as searching online seems quicker and cheaper than scheduling a medical visit.
- While online resources can provide general guidance, it’s essential to consult a doctor for accurate diagnosis and proper care says Dr. Scott.
Online information is often not peer-reviewed or written by credible medical professionals. It isn’t personalised to you- most of what you read is very general. You might have a simple symptom that you end up matching to a rare, serious condition, when it’s something minor. This can create unnecessary fear and anxiety, and can also delay proper treatment.Dr. Angelica Logarta-Scott, Specialist GP
Healthy Pinoy is SBS Filipino's weekly segment on health. The content provided is for informational purposes only and does not intend to substitute professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult your GP or doctor for support.
📢 Where to Catch SBS Filipino
🔊 On Air – Tune in to SBS Filipino on radio stations across Australia and website livestream, and TV Channel 302 from 10 AM to 11 AM AEST daily.
📲 Catch up episodes and stories – Visit sbs.com.au/filipino or stream on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Youtube Podcasts, and SBS Audio app.
