In a world where technology is advancing at an unprecedented pace, artificial intelligence (AI) has entered nearly every aspect of our lives, from education to entertainment.
However, perhaps one of the most unexpected and revolutionary applications of AI is in healthcare.
Recently, a viral Reddit post highlighted how ChatGPT, an AI chatbot developed by OpenAI, saved a user's life by diagnosing a rare and life-threatening condition called rhabdomyolysis.
This story, along with others involving AI chatbots like Grok, has sparked widespread discussions about the potential of AI in healthcare.
Could AI chatbots really become a game-changer in medical diagnostics?
In a now-famous Reddit post, a user named "Ananymous717" shared their experience of consulting ChatGPT after feeling unusually sore and unwell following a light workout.
Despite waiting a few days for the symptoms to subside, their condition worsened.
Concerned, the user described their symptoms to ChatGPT, which immediately flagged the possibility of moderate to severe rhabdomyolysis, a condition where muscle tissue breaks down, releasing harmful proteins into the bloodstream that can damage the kidneys.
Acting on ChatGPT’s advice, the user sought medical attention and underwent lab tests, which confirmed the diagnosis.
The prompt intervention likely saved them from severe complications, as untreated rhabdomyolysis can lead to kidney failure or even death.
The user continued to rely on ChatGPT to analyse their lab results, which aligned closely with the findings of their medical team.
"I knew what was going on before the doctor even explained it," they wrote.
What is Rhabdomyolysis?
According to BioMed Central Rhabdomyolysis is a serious medical condition that occurs when damaged muscle fibres release proteins like myoglobin into the bloodstream.
This can lead to complications such as:
Kidney injury or failure: Myoglobin( is an iron and oxygen binding protein and it is related to hemoglobin, it is only found in the bloodstream upon injury of the muscles can overwhelm the kidneys, reducing their ability to filter waste.
Electrolyte imbalances: This can cause irregular heart rhythms or seizures.
Severe dehydration: Resulting from fluid loss as the body tries to flush out toxins.
The condition often arises from overexertion, dehydration or trauma. In the case of the Reddit user, their workout, combined with high caffeine intake and dehydration, served as the perfect storm.
While rhabdomyolysis is considered rare, early diagnosis and treatment (usually involving IV fluids to flush the kidneys) are essential.
This isn’t the first time AI has stepped in where traditional methods fell short. A similar story went viral when a woman named AJ Kay used Elon Musk’s AI chatbot, Grok, to identify her daughter’s wrist fracture after doctors wrongly dismissed her X-ray.
Grok’s analysis prompted her to seek a second opinion, which confirmed a distal radial head fracture with dorsal displacement. Thanks to the timely diagnosis, surgery was avoided, and proper care was provided.
These cases highlight a critical gap in healthcare systems: human error and resource limitations. AI chatbots, with their ability to analyse vast amounts of data quickly, can help bridge this gap.
However, it’s really important to note that AI should not replace professional medical advice. Instead, it serves as a supplementary tool, enabling patients to make more informed decisions about their health.
How AI Chatbots should be used in together with the medical community:
Process data rapidly: Al can sift through millions of medical records and research studies to identify possible conditions based on symptoms.
Provide accessible advice: Unlike doctors, chatbots are available 24/7 and don't require appointments.
Reduce anxiety: Al tools can provide initial insights, helping users feel more informed before consulting a healthcare professional.
Internet users react
The internet’s reaction to these stories has been overwhelmingly positive, with social media users praising the life-saving potential of AI.
One Reddit user commented: “Happy for you, OP. And yes, ChatGPT is great with such details!” Another added: “This is how AI should be used - for guidance, not as a replacement for doctors.”
However, some remain sceptical. Medical professionals caution against relying solely on AI, as it lacks the nuanced understanding and context that human doctors bring to the table.
A misdiagnosis or overreliance on AI could lead to unnecessary panic or delayed treatment.
The use of AI in healthcare is still in its infancy, but its potential is undeniable. From diagnosing rare diseases to monitoring chronic conditions, the possibilities are endless.
However, challenges remain:
1. Data privacy: Sharing sensitive health information with AI tools raises concerns about data security.
2. Regulation: The healthcare industry needs clear guidelines on how AI can be safely and ethically used.
3. Bias: AI algorithms are only as good as the data they're trained on. If that data is biased, outcomes could be skewed.
As AI technology continues to evolve, we may see a future where chatbots become an integral part of the healthcare ecosystem.
For now, they serve as a powerful reminder of how technology can save lives, when used responsibly.
∎ This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.