@linamend, that is a good question. You're quite right that a patient forum is not a replacement for professional medical care. I think there are many reasons, some of which may remain unknown, why people post on a forum first before seeing a provider. These may include things like limited access to health care professionals, looking for affirmation that their issue requires medical attention, and others that I can't even venture a guess.

Whatever the reason, I'm grateful for the kindness of Connect members to support fellow members when they are worried and to encourage them to seek professional help where warranted.