Debunking Internet Myths: What Is the Best Approach?

The Internet has become a common resource of health information for the public across the world. People turn to the Internet to self-diagnose and, sometimes, self-treat. It can lead patients with oftentimes vague symptoms to turn to a primary care doctor or endocrinologist with a perceived diagnosis of hypothyroidism, low testosterone (or low T), or “adrenal fatigue.” It is the physician’s responsibility to listen to the frequently frustrated patient, do a complete history and physical, educate them on the true way to diagnose and treat the presumed condition, and direct them toward a possible etiology of their symptoms.