The dangers of Internet diagnosis

The last month I have been suffering horribly from itchy skin, mostly in the legs. Because there were no visual signs at first, I self-internet-diagnosed the itchiness as a symptom of poor circulation (a few months ago I was diagnosed with a probable small blood clot in one of my legs). My doctor for circulation issues is located about an hour's drive away and in any case had no appointments immediately available so I self-medicated by doing exercise (to improve circulation) and applying moisturizing cream to reduce the itchiness. Unfortunately, over the weeks, things worsened until the itchiness spread all over my body, in patches of visible spots, and so uncomfortable it was interfering with my work and leisure. Now it was obvious that this must be some kind of skin issue and probably not related to circulation or my kidney disease (which can also cause itchiness in the late stages). I called my usual dermatogist. Next available appointment in 6 weeks. I'd probably commit suicide by then because the itching was driving me crazy. Managed to get an appointment with a general practitioner who swiftly diagnosed the problem as scabies, a microscopic parasite whose larvae burrow into the skin. While relieved to find I had a treatable condition, I felt like such an idiot for suffering for so long just because of my general reluctance to organize a visit to the doctor. Moral of the story: SEE AN EXPERT as soon as things start getting worse! Second moral: Those of us who have easy access to healthcare are unbelievably lucky compared to the most of the world's population. We should appreciate that and not take it for granted.