More online dos and don'ts

Don't panic if you read something that scares you.
It may not be true. It may not apply to you. It may be so rare that it doesn't warrant concern, let alone panic. Call your doctor; she can reassure you.

Don't trust the Internet over your doctor.
Again, I'm not saying doctors are infallible, or that they shouldn't be open to new ideas.

But before you ditch advice or treatments that a pediatrician gave you based on your child's specific situation, discuss what you'd like to try with her to be sure it makes sense and  -- more important  -- isn't dangerous. If your doctor doesn't agree with an approach you've discovered on the web and you feel strongly that you want to try it, get a second opinion. If both doctors are discouraging, well, there's probably a good reason.

Do let your doctor know you're using the Internet.
She may suggest some especially helpful sites, anticipate questions you might have, and help you be sure you're using the right words and terms when you search.

Do talk to your doctor about what you read.
It's the best way to figure out what does apply to you, to make sure you understand what you've read, and to see if there are ways you and your doctor can use what you've learned.

Do use websites from reputable sources.
Look for ones created and maintained by national professional organizations, such as the American Academy of Pediatrics

Two other sites I recommend for family health information:

• kidshealth.org

• intelihealth.com

Do look for information meant for patients.
Many of the "academy" sites have areas specifically geared to health professionals. While the information can be useful, it also can be very technical. Most sites created by professional organizations have sections written in plain English rather than medicalese; they're usually labeled clearly with a title like "Patients/Consumers" or "Parenting Corner."

Do be a savvy consumer.
If the site seems to be pushing a particular product or therapy (or is trying to sell you one), the information should be taken with a grain of salt.

Do be wary of personal websites.
While learning about and from another family's experience can be useful, what happened to them may not apply to you. The surgery, diet, or medication that transformed their child might not be a good idea at all for yours. It also can be impossible to know if information found on personal websites is accurate or true.

Bottom line: Keep your doctor and a healthy dose of skepticism in mind when you read medical advice on the web, and you'll be able to handle any family health crisis with confidence.

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