'Discomgoogolation' is the latest malady afflicting Internet geeks

London, Sept 2 : Feeling stressed over not being able to access the Internet? Well, then you suffer from a disorder - 'discomgoogolation'.

The new stress-related disorder is said to affect users who have become so entirely dependent on the web they suffer withdrawal symptoms.

It is defined as a 'feeling of distress or anxiety when unable to gain immediate information access'.

A poll of 2,100 people found 76 percent of Britons admitted that they could not live without the Internet.

"The proliferation of broadband has meant for the first time in history we have entered a culture of 'instant answers' - a galaxy of information is just a mouse click away and we have become addicted to the web," the Daily Star quoted psychologist Dr David Lewis, as saying.

"When unable to get online, discomgoogolation takes over.

"It was surprising to see the stress this led to. Brain activity and blood pressure in participants both increased in response to being cut off from the Internet.

"This study proves the growing British obsession with the net is having a negative impact on our health and well-being," he added.

The YouGov study of Brits was conducted n behalf of information service 118118.

Researchers at Oregon Health and Science University found that 44 percent of those who took part felt frustrated and confused while unable to get online.

And more than a quarter admitted to increased stress levels.

The study was published in the American Journal of Psychiatry.

ANI