Whether you've been diagnosed with a critical illness or are having your yearly bout with allergies, there are some things you need to be aware of before trying alternative treatments. Follow these tips and protect your health.

It's human nature to question the treatment and advice you get from your physician. Should I take the medication he recommends? Is this the best treatment for my condition? Are the side effects of this medication worth the risk?

All of these questions and many more run through your head when making health decisions. Because of strong medications often prescribed by physicians and the potential side effects, many people turn to alternative treatments instead of mainstream treatments. The decision is up to each individual, but before you decide to stray from the traditional medical path, follow these tips to ensure your safety and health.

Tip #1 -- Beware of claims

Does the alternative treatment you are considering claim to cure your disease? If so, reconsider. Be wary of any treatment that claims to cure a disease or illness, or uses the words secret, exclusive, miracle, breakthrough, special, or proven. All of these words should be considered "red flag" words and should immediately make you suspicious.

Remember, it's highly doubtful that a treatment found on the Internet can cure a disease or illness that modern medical science can't.

Tip #2 -- What are the side effects?

Alternative treatments often use the term "all-natural" to assure you that it is safe. Just because something is "all-natural" doesn't mean that there are no side effects. Opium is all-natural, but it definitely has its share of side effects!

Tip #3 -- Check for research

Many forms of alternative treatments have glowing testimonials from people who have supposedly used them. This is not safe. First, you can't be sure that the testimonials are real or are even from real people. Secondly, if the testimonials are real, you don't know the condition of the person giving the testimonial. They very well had completely different symptoms than you and what worked for them won't necessarily work for you.

The safest bet is to trust research that has been performed on an independent basis, by a professional company, and has a proven track record. Review research from several different sources to get several viewpoints and opinions.

Tip #4 -- Consult with your physician

If you decide to try an alternative treatment, be sure to tell your doctor. Alternative treatments can clash with the treatment and medication that your doctor has prescribed and potentially cause serious health risks.

Tip #5 -- Check certification

When using an alternative treatment practitioner, always check for certification from a reliable educational institute. Natural practitioners aren't monitored and anyone can set up shop and begin offering natural treatments. Be safe and check their credentials before accepting treatment or advice.

Your health is precious. Don't take risks when it comes to treating major or even minor illnesses. Use these 5 tips to make sure you are getting the best alternative treatment possible.