internet-derived-information-obstructing-treatment-idiot-syndrome

WELLNESS / Internet Derived Information Obstructing Treatment (IDIOT) Syndrome

Internet Derived Information Obstructing Treatment (IDIOT) Syndrome

Internet Derived Information Obstructing Treatment (IDIOT) syndrome, also known as cyberchondria, is a condition in which people stop or change their medical treatment based on information they find online instead of trusting their doctor. The rapid increase in internet use in the current digital era has caused a potential increase in anxiety, and a person either self-medicates or abruptly stops the drug for his medical illness, thereby the rise in the Internet Derived Information Obstructing Treatment (IDIOT) syndrome. The Internet Derived Information Obstructing Treatment (IDIOT) syndrome occurs when patients abruptly quit their treatment because they have blindly trusted Internet medical information. WHO calls this an " Infodemic," which has created a complex situation in healthcare, as it has caused too much information in digital and physical environments during an outbreak of the disease and caused mistrust among health authorities. Patients get important health information online and anticipate additional assistance. Patients must not merely believe healthcare-related information available from online health resources and must seek the help of licensed healthcare professionals for their health concerns. There must be an increase in the awareness programs among the public so as not to fall as victim and blindly follow or abruptly stop their medical prescriptions for their medical illness from available online health resources.

The negative consequences are as follows:
- Misinformation: The internet can be inaccurate or unreliable.
- Self-medication: People may try to treat themselves based on information they find online.
- Delayed or incorrect medical interventions: People may not get the care they need when they need it.
- Anxiety: People may experience increased anxiety or other anxiety-related symptoms.
- Mistrust of medical professionals: People may stop trusting medical professionals.

To avoid IDIOT syndrome, you can:
- Limit excessive searching for symptoms.
- Discuss concerns with your doctor during check-ups.
- Be skeptical of anecdotal evidence.