Cyberchondria in medical education
Abstract
Cyberchondria is a term used to describe the excessive worry and anxiety a person experiences due to medical information they find online. This term refers to the tendency of some people to search for information about their symptoms or health concerns on the internet and then misinterpret that information to conclude that they have a serious or dangerous illness, even when that is not necessarily true. Cyberchondriacs can spend hours browsing medical websites, discussion forums, and other online resources, looking for information about symptoms or illnesses they think they have. This constant search for information can lead to increased anxiety and fear about one's own health, which in turn can lead to avoidance behaviors, such as avoiding leaving the house or constantly seeking medical attention. It's important to note that while online medical information can be helpful, it can also be incorrect, incomplete, or based on assumptions and speculation. In addition, the excess of medical information (infodemic) can create unnecessary anxiety and stress and can make it difficult to make informed decisions about health.
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