CountryGal

We all know the most common resource for natural health information is the internet, i.e., e-health! You are probably reading this article because you search blogs for information on nutrition, vitamins and supplements or just health information in general.

One goal of e-health is to provide quality information on the Internet. It is estimated that 50-80% of Internet users search for health information on the web (Miller & West, 2009). With online capabilities rising, an astonishing 57% reported that e-health information influenced their treatment options. Forty-one percent (including myself) searched for information on news groups and support blogs, while 24% used information provided by physicians and hospitals.

A Symptom Checker provides a description of possible conditions based on the described symptoms. That sounds pretty straight forward, doesn't it?  There are two symptom checkers that I know of; WebMD.com and HealthCentral.com.  I found the WebMD.com Symptom Checker more user-friendly with better informational facts/tips provided each step of the way (and a short video, as well). The HealthCentral.com Symptoms Checker had more steps, but provided a list of conditions associated with the selected symptoms.

Next time you have an ache or pain, try one of these symptom checkers to help you decide if it's just the change in weather that is causing your aches and pains, or if you may possibly need to see a doctor. Just click the images to try it out for yourself.


















Be Healthy, Be Happy!