Using Online Health Tools to Connect with Others

Millions of people go online in search of health information. There are many sites that offer health information and help pinpoint diseases and conditions by using tools such as symptom checkers and disease finders. I also like to check out other sources that can offer a more personal and unique experience. Two of my favorite tools to use are Twitter and online support groups.

Twitter
Twitter, a micro-blogging site, allows users to instantly send and receive updates. Health and well-being are two topics that are becoming popular on Twitter. For example, people who want to lose weight have found Twitter helpful. Diet tips, low-calorie recipes, and workout routines have been the subject of many Tweets. The information found and connections made help to form an online support system for those on diets.

There are also many health professionals and organizations that share knowledge on Twitter. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and the World Health Organization (WHO) have their own Twitter accounts. Reputable and trusted sources such as these can help to confirm or disregard information circulating on the Web.

When the swine flu outbreak occurred, some Twitter users created unnecessary hype and misinformation. (On some days, more than 10,000 Tweets per hour were posted about swine flu!) So be aware; many Tweets led to the spread of misinformation, like the myth that swine flu could be contracted by eating pork.

Perhaps what is most amazing to me about the use of Twitter is the fact that it provides a real-time glimpse into discussions around the globe. Though there was misinformation, Twitter provided an incredible means to quickly inform and educate a large population about a budding health concern.

As with any online health resource, following trusted and knowledgeable users is important when obtaining health information on Twitter.

Online Support Groups
There are many online support groups for various skin diseases and conditions. People suffering from psoriasis, vitiligo, eczema, and many other conditions may find comfort in joining an online support group. These groups offer a place to meet and communicate with other people in similar circumstances. Joining an online support group like MDJunction or DailyStrength can provide you with advice, treatment options, and a place to disclose your feelings, all from the comforts of your own home. Patients Like Me is another health social networking site, which was inspired by the founder’s personal experience with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (often referred to as Lou Gehrig’s disease).

There are also support groups and communities for people suffering from rare and chronic conditions. The International Pemphigus & Pemphigoid Foundation (IPPF) provides support to those affected by pemphigus and pemphigoid through online forums and connects patients by phone and e-mail. HealingWell is another online social network and community that provides support and resources for people living with a chronic illness. 

These are just a few ways that you can get in touch with others and share your own stories. What is your favorite way to connect and communicate with others online about health issues?

Follow Us
Recently, we started using Twitter to post skin health information. Follow VisualDxHealth (user name Skinsight) on Twitter to receive daily skin health tips and the latest content updates.

I am also a Twitter user and would like to invite you to follow me as well. By using Twitter, I keep my colleagues and readers up to date on various health topics. During the year, I attend many conferences and enjoy Tweeting about new trends in health care. Feel free to follow me here.