How to Prepare for a Video Visit About Rosacea in Children

Audience: pediatric

Rosacea is a skin condition that can cause redness, bumps, and irritation, often on the face. While it is more common in adults, children can also experience rosacea symptoms. Preparing for a video visit with a healthcare provider about rosacea can help you get the most out of the appointment. This guide explains what to expect during the visit, how to prepare, and when to seek urgent care. Telemedicine can help with education, symptom review, and treatment planning, but some situations require in-person visits. Understanding rosacea and sharing clear information during your video visit can support better care for your child.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Sudden, severe swelling or pain on the face — seek emergency care immediately.
• Fever over 38°C (100.4°F) with worsening skin redness or pus — contact healthcare provider urgently.
• Difficulty breathing, swallowing, or speaking during the episode — call emergency services without delay.

What telemedicine can do

• Reviewing symptoms and medical history related to rosacea.
• Providing education about rosacea triggers and skin care.
• Discussing treatment options and prescribing medications if appropriate.
• Determining if in-person evaluation is needed.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Performing physical procedures or skin tests.
• Diagnosing severe infections or complications requiring urgent care.
• Administering emergency treatments.
• Providing detailed skin biopsy or laboratory testing.

What is Rosacea in Children?

Rosacea is a long-lasting skin condition that causes redness and sometimes pimples or bumps, mainly on the face. In children, it may look like persistent redness on the cheeks, nose, or forehead. The exact cause is not fully known, but triggers like sun exposure, heat, or certain foods can make symptoms worse. Rosacea is not contagious and can often be managed with proper care.

Preparing for Your Video Visit

Before the video visit, find a quiet, well-lit space with good internet connection. Have your child's face clean and free of makeup or creams to show the skin clearly. Write down any symptoms you've noticed, such as redness, itching, or bumps, and note when they started. Also, list any treatments or skincare products your child uses. Prepare questions you want to ask the healthcare provider.

What to Expect During the Video Visit

During the video visit, the healthcare provider will ask about your child's symptoms, medical history, and possible triggers. They may ask you to show the affected skin areas clearly on camera. Based on this, they can suggest ways to manage symptoms, recommend skincare routines, or discuss medications if needed. Sometimes, they may advise an in-person visit for a closer examination.

When to Seek In-Person Care or Emergency Help

If your child develops severe swelling, pain, or signs of infection like pus or fever, seek in-person medical care promptly. Also, if redness spreads quickly or your child has difficulty breathing or swallowing, call emergency services immediately. These are serious signs that need urgent attention beyond telemedicine.

Managing Rosacea at Home

You can help manage your child's rosacea by avoiding known triggers such as extreme temperatures, harsh skincare products, and certain foods. Use gentle cleansers and moisturizers recommended by your healthcare provider. Protect your child's skin from the sun with hats and sunscreen. Follow any treatment plans given during the visit and report any side effects or changes.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Choose a quiet, well-lit area with reliable internet for the video visit.
• Ensure your child's face is clean and free of makeup or creams.
• Prepare a list of symptoms, including when they started and any changes.
• Gather information on current skincare products or medications your child uses.
• Write down any questions or concerns to discuss with the healthcare provider.
• Have a device ready with camera and microphone enabled for the visit.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the treatment plan and skincare advice provided during the visit.
• Monitor your child's skin for any changes or side effects from treatments.
• Avoid known rosacea triggers as advised by the healthcare provider.
• Schedule follow-up appointments if recommended.
• Seek in-person care if red flags or worsening symptoms appear.
• Keep notes on your child's skin condition to share in future visits.

FAQs

Can rosacea be cured in children?

Rosacea is usually a long-term condition that can be managed but not completely cured. With proper care and avoiding triggers, symptoms often improve significantly.

Is rosacea contagious to others?

No, rosacea is not contagious. It cannot be spread from one person to another through touch or close contact.

What triggers should I avoid for my child’s rosacea?

Common triggers include sun exposure, hot weather, spicy foods, stress, and harsh skin products. Identifying and avoiding your child's specific triggers can help reduce flare-ups.

Can I use over-the-counter creams for my child's rosacea?

Some gentle moisturizers may help, but avoid products with alcohol, fragrances, or irritants. Always check with your healthcare provider before using new products.

When should I see a doctor in person?

If your child's symptoms worsen, if there is pain, swelling, fever, pus, or if you notice any signs of infection or breathing difficulties, seek in-person medical care immediately.

Sources

1. Rosacea — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. Rosacea: Symptoms and Causes — Mayo Clinic.
3. Rosacea — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
4. Rosacea in Children: A Review — National Library of Medicine.

This telemedicine guidance is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional in-person medical care. If you have concerns about your child's health, please seek evaluation by a healthcare provider in person.