The internet is now the first place many people turn when they think they are suffering from a health problem, but web users should take care that the information they are reading is accurate.

Points to look at, include:

• Where does the information come from: Good health websites will credit/quote medical research from various areas of expertise, or have expert contributors to provide professional content. At the very least, be careful of websites that do not state where their ‘health facts’ come from. Good health websites will always link off to expert external websites to help users find out more.

• What is the purpose of the Web site: Is the purpose of the site to inform? Is it to sell a product or is it to raise money? If you can tell who runs and pays for the site, this will help you evaluate its purpose. Be cautious about any advice you may receive from sites that are trying to sell a product or service.

• Is the content all one-sided: Check that what you are reading does not have an ulterior motive behind it. For example, if you are reading about erectile dysfunction online, but the information keeps hinting about how Viagra could help, and the website happens to be owned by a pharmaceutical company specialising in Viagra, then it is probably best to seek a second opinion from another website.

• How old is the information: Some health websites have good information, but it is just out of date with the most recent research. Always try and check that you are reading a recent article – or at least check that there is additional information on the site about a specific condition. For best advice visit a website that is updated daily, such as this one!

• Avoid Miracle Cure Claims: If the information you are reading sounds unbelievable – such as a revolutionary tablet to cure cancer - then it probably is. Be on your guard for misleading medical reports. If a website is advising you to buy something – usually a product that they sell – then you can be sure there is a commercial motive behind the advice they are giving.

While the internet is increasingly becoming part of everyone’s first-aid package, Keep the Doctor Away urge anyone who may think that they have a serious problem to visit their GP.

Find your local GP visit: www.nhsdirect.nhs.uk