Danger of playing your own doc

In an era dominated by internet access and self-help culture, the temptation to diagnose and treat oneself without consulting a medical professional has grown significantly.

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While being informed about one's health is commendable, playing your own doctor can be not only misleading but also dangerous—and, in some cases, life-threatening.

A growing number of people now turn to search engines, health apps, social media advice, and over-the-counter medication to manage symptoms ranging from mild headaches to more serious conditions like chest pain or persistent fatigue. This practice, commonly referred to as "self-diagnosis" or "self-treatment," often stems from convenience, cost concerns, or distrust of medical systems. However, the risks it carries far outweigh the perceived benefits.

One of the most serious dangers of self-doctoring is misdiagnosis. A headache might be due to stress or it could be a symptom of something more serious like a brain tumor or hypertension. Relying on general information online does not account for the complexities of individual medical history, physical examinations, or diagnostic tests.