Abstract
BackgroundThe data retrieved with the online search engine, Google Trends, can summarize internet inquiries into specified search terms. This engine may be used for analyzing inquiry peaks for different medical conditions and symptoms.ObjectiveThe aim of this study was to analyze World Wide Web interest peaks for “ear pain,” “ear infection,” and “ear drops.”MethodsWe used Google Trends to assess the public online interest for search terms “ear pain,” “ear infection,” and “ear drops” in 5 English and non–English-speaking countries from both hemispheres based on time series data. We performed our analysis for the time frame between January 1, 2004, and December 31, 2019. First, we assessed whether our search terms were most relevant to the topics of ear pain, ear infection, and ear drops. We then tested the reliability of Google Trends time series data using the intraclass correlation coefficient. In a second step, we computed univariate time series plots to depict peaks in web-based interest. In the last step, we used the cosinor analysis to test the statistical significance of seasonal interest peaks.ResultsIn the first part of the study, it was revealed that “ear infection,” “ear pain,” and “ear drops” were the most relevant search terms in the noted time frame. Next, the intraclass correlation analysis showed a moderate to excellent reliability for all 5 countries’ 3 primary search terms. The subsequent analysis revealed winter interest peaks for “ear infection” and “ear pain”. On the other hand, the World Wide Web search for “ear drops” peaked annually during the summer months. All peaks were statistically significant as revealed by the cosinor model (all P values <.001).ConclusionsIt can be concluded that individuals affected by otitis media or externa, possibly the majority, look for medical information online. Therefore, there is a need for accurate and easily accessible information on these conditions in the World Wide Web, particularly on differentiating signs and therapy options. Meeting this need may facilitate timely diagnosis, proper therapy, and eventual circumvention of potentially life-threatening complications.
Highlights
Google Search (Google LLC) is the most commonly used internet search engine, and almost two-thirds of all daily online inquiries are performed using this platform. [1] Google Trends (GT) delivers information on geographical and temporal patterns of search volumes for inquiries performed with Google. [2] Notably, several studies have already used GT to analyze web user searches for different otolaryngological symptoms, conditions, and diseases. [3,4,5,6] conditions in other medical disciplines have been assessed, including in cardiology [7,8], urology [9], and orthopedic surgery [10]
We explored relative search volume (RSV) for the following 3 search terms related to ear infections: “ear drops” (“Ohrentropfen”), “ear pain” (“Ohrenschmerzen”), and “ear infection” (“Ohr Entzündung”)
Search Terms Related to Ear Infection, Ear Pain, and Ear Drops
Summary
Google Search (Google LLC) is the most commonly used internet search engine, and almost two-thirds of all daily online inquiries are performed using this platform. [1] Google Trends (GT) delivers information on geographical and temporal patterns of search volumes for inquiries performed with Google. [2] Notably, several studies have already used GT to analyze web user searches for different otolaryngological symptoms, conditions, and diseases. [3,4,5,6] conditions in other medical disciplines have been assessed, including in cardiology [7,8], urology [9], and orthopedic surgery [10]. 1 (page number not for citation purposes) search volumes for certain medical conditions could potentially The data were retrieved in the “Health” category for the time follow their annual incidence peaks. New diagnostic guidelines recommend combining medical history, clinical symptoms, and strict otoscopic criteria to determine this diagnosis [14]. These include moderate or severe tympanic membrane bulging combined with otorrhea or mild bulging combined with recent onset of ear pain. The data retrieved with the online search engine, Google Trends, can summarize internet inquiries into specified search terms. This engine may be used for analyzing inquiry peaks for different medical conditions and symptoms
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
