Should You Ever Self-Diagnose

DR IQBAL FARIM RIZAL WONG
Consultant ENT Surgeon at Columbia Asia Hospital – Petaling Jaya

“I actually welcome Google as among other things, it gives the general public some idea on the problem that is afflicting them – which will tell them where or whom to seek help from. For example, with dizziness or vertigo, an uninformed person may just go to a general practitioner (or even just dismiss it). But those who have done some research may know that the best person to go to is an ear, nose and throat surgeon. Because of this, some doctors may find that patients these days are asking more questions, which I personally think is a good thing. I prefer my patients informed, especially if they are to go for surgery, as they need to understand the risks involved and what to expect in terms of outcome. Self-diagnosis is not necessarily dangerous as long as you seek professional help. However, self-treatment is.”