If You're Going To Google Your Health Symptoms, Here's How To Do It Right

• Look for some basics that can help indicate whether a study holds up
• Was it published in a peer-reviewed journal? That means it has been scrutinized by other experts in the field for quality and accuracy.
• What was the sample size like? What limitations have the study's authors pointed out?

• If you are searching for your symptoms and getting really stressed out, reach out to an actual medical professional who can help provide answers.
• As you're searching, do a gut check: Are you making yourself feel stressed or anxious? Are you trying too hard to push away your nagging concerns?

Save any studies or articles you visit, and bring a list of links to the doctor with you so you can discuss them together when you go to see your doctor.

Your health care provider should be open to talking to you about any research you bring up.

• Nothing beats going to an actual doctor, nurse or health care clinic to get answers to the health questions you have.
• Be transparent about the limits of an online search.
• Referrals to a doctor or clinic will direct you to the next evaluation you need.