How many times has it happened to you that after a symptom, you run to the computer or directly to your cell phone to understand more about this sign. Surveys show that about 90% of patients Google their symptoms before talking to a doctor. But such a habit can cause you anxiety.

Here are five ways to properly Google health symptoms:

#1 Search the official websites of major health organizations, hospitals, and well-known universities

Inaccurate health information is everywhere on the Internet. You should start your research with known and reputable sources. Sites such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the World Health Organization, the Mayo Clinic or the Cleveland Clinic are known to be among the most trusted in terms of the information they convey based on sources and scientific research.

#2 Check in multiple channels

In order to understand whether a study is reliable, you need to search in several channels: whether it was published in a scientific journal, on a well-known and reputable website. If so, how transparent is the research, who funded it, is there a conflict of interest, etc.

#3 Understand how this search is making you feel

If you're looking for the symptoms and you're really stressed, that's a red flag. Instead of panicking, contact a doctor who can help you answer all the questions you have.

#4 Make a note of the information you want to discuss

Be sure to bookmark the articles or websites you are visiting. If a particular study or article is of interest, save it. That way, when you go to the doctor, you can present a list of questions or issues you want to discuss.

#5 When in doubt, talk to a doctor, nurse or health clinic

After all, if you look for data on the Internet for any health symptom, you can also choose the shortest and safest way: meeting directly with a doctor, nurse or visiting a specialized clinic.

Source: Huffpost