What is IDIOT syndrome?

The rapid increase in internet use in the current digital era has caused a potential increase in anxiety, and a person either self-medicates or abruptly stops the drug for his medical illness, thereby there is a rise in the Internet Derived information Obstructing Treatment (IDIOT) syndrome.
  
The term IDIOT refers to situations where individuals, after seeking medical information online, either self-medicate based on what they find or abruptly stop their prescribed medications, often leading to negative health outcomes.
 
The Consequences of IDIOT Syndrome are Self-medication or abrupt discontinuation of prescribed medications can lead to adverse health effects, worsening of the condition, or development of new health issues.
 
Relying on inaccurate information can delay seeking proper medical treatment, potentially leading to more severe health problems.

 
Continuous search for health information can increase anxiety and stress, particularly if the information is alarming or contradictory.
 
Doctors may find it challenging to manage patients who come with preconceived notions or distrust based on internet information.
 
The Internet Derived Information Obstructing Treatment (IDIOT) syndrome occurs when patients abruptly quit their treatment because they have blindly trusted internet medical information. WHO calls this an "Infodemic" which has created a complex situation in healthcare, as it has caused too much information in digital and physical environments during an outbreak of the disease and caused mistrust in health authorities.
 
While the internet can be a valuable resource for health information, it is crucial to approach it with caution. Healthcare professionals play a vital role in guiding patients to make informed decisions and avoid the pitfalls of IDIOT syndrome. By promoting reliable information and fostering trust, we can mitigate the negative impacts of internet-derived health information on patient treatment.