Paging Dr. Google

Q: I got sick recently and consulted the Internet. I completely panicked when I found matches for everything from cancer to the common cold. Which online medical sources can I trust?

A: The Web can be a great source when settling an argument over who won the ‘79 World Series or how to spell “hors d’oeuvre,” but when it comes to diagnosing family illnesses? Not so much. Only a doctor can make a medical diagnosis and parents should never try to diagnose or treat a child based on advice found online.

If you or your child gets sick or shows symptoms of an illness, you need to call your doctor, but the Internet is helpful when it comes to general health matters or coping with a particular illness or condition. Many medical sites offer educational explanations, general treatment options, news, resources and support, but you’ll want to make sure the site is legitimate. Here are three questions to consider:

Who is the source? Identify the sponsor of the site, notice those listed on the advisory board and whether the site is for consumers or the medical community. You can also look for HONcode accreditation seals at the bottom of a Web page. This certification (from Health On the Net Foundation) identifies sites that meet certain standards. HON-approved sites are listed online.

Is the site current? Has the site been updated recently? Most quality sites have recent updates, noted by date, especially on hot health topics. Avoid stale health sites (with news more than a year old).

Are there other sites? Web sites vary in design and content. CDC.gov and Kidshealth.org offer doctor-reviewed health information on children from birth through adolescence. Mayoclinic.org offers interactive tools to help manage health issues. Visit a variety of sites to decide which addresses your needs best.

Sharon Miller Cindrich is a mom of two and the author of E-Parenting: Keeping up with your Tech-Savvy Kids.