Ever heard of bursitis? It’s among the most-searched illnesses, injuries in Idaho in 2023
In modern times, anyone worried about an injury or illness can immediately look it up online. If you think you or someone in your life has an undiagnosed medical condition, you can quickly Google signs, symptoms and responses.
While this is not a substitute for advice from a medical professional, it does allow people to do initial research as their first step. You can become more educated on the possibilities that apply to you and discuss them with your doctor.
Searching symptoms on the internet is an option many people utilize, as Google data shows that hundreds of injuries are searched yearly. The most-searched injuries in the U.S. were looked up hundreds of thousands of times in 2023, according to a recent study out of Hutzer Law.
Idaho’s five most-searched injuries and illnesses are the same as the country’s top five but in a different order.
Idaho’s most-searched illnesses and injuries
The top five illnesses and injuries searched in the Gem State were bursitis, nasal septum deviation, carpal tunnel syndrome, shin splints, and concussion, according to the study from Hutzer Law, which analyzed Google data.
1. Bursitis - Searched an average of 980 times per month
Bursitis is a form of joint pain caused by inflamed fluid pockets around joints. It is commonly experienced in the shoulder, elbow and hip but can occur around any joints that are often used in repetitive movement.
Depending on the severity of the pain, it is a good idea to visit a medical provider for diagnosis and treatment.
2. Nasal septum deviation - Searched an average of 907 times per month
A deviated septum occurs when the wall between your nasal passages is off-center, making one larger than the other. This can impact airflow and cause snoring, difficulty breathing, nosebleeds and facial pain.
Nasal septum deviation can only be diagnosed by a doctor and treated with surgery.
3. Carpel tunnel syndrome - Searched an average of 873 times per month
This syndrome causes pain, tingling and numbness in the hands and forearm due to nerve compression. Symptoms begin as minor pain but become more severe over time and can interfere with everyday schedules. It is extremely important to get it looked at by a professional before any permanent damage sets in.
4. Shin splints - Searched an average of 872 times per month
Shin splints are a form of leg pain caused by overuse, specifically around the shinbone. It is commonly a result of increased physical activity.
The recommended home treatment for someone experiencing this kind of pain is rest, ice and light stretching often.
5. Concussion - Searched an average of 544 times per month
Caused by force, concussions are mild brain injuries where the brain moves back and forth against the skull’s inner walls. They can cause various symptoms, including amnesia, dizziness, headaches, nausea, fatigue and blurred vision.
Head injuries should be taken seriously. Monitor someone’s condition in the hours following the impact to the head and seek emergency care if symptoms become severe.