How to prepare for a video visit about Abdominal Pain (Mild) - Triage

Audience: adult

Mild abdominal pain is common and can have many causes, ranging from minor issues like indigestion to more serious conditions. A video visit with a healthcare provider can help assess your symptoms and guide next steps. To get the most from your telemedicine appointment, it's important to prepare by noting when the pain started, its location, and any other symptoms you have. During the visit, your provider may ask about your medical history and lifestyle. While telemedicine can help evaluate mild pain and suggest home care or further testing, it cannot replace in-person exams or emergency care when needed. If you experience severe pain, fever, vomiting, or other urgent signs, seek immediate medical attention. This guide helps you prepare for your video visit and understand what telemedicine can and cannot do for abdominal pain.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Severe or worsening abdominal pain that limits your ability to move or breathe — seek emergency care immediately.
• High fever (above 38°C or 100.4°F) with abdominal pain — contact emergency services or go to the emergency room.
• Persistent vomiting or inability to keep fluids down for more than 24 hours — seek urgent medical attention.

What telemedicine can do

• Assessment of mild abdominal pain and related symptoms.
• Providing advice on symptom management and home care.
• Guidance on when to seek in-person evaluation or emergency care.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Performing physical examination or imaging tests.
• Diagnosing serious or life-threatening conditions requiring urgent care.
• Providing prescriptions for controlled substances or complex treatments without in-person evaluation.

What to Expect During Your Video Visit

Your healthcare provider will ask about your abdominal pain, including when it started, where it hurts, and how it feels. They may inquire about other symptoms like nausea, fever, or changes in bowel habits. Be ready to describe your pain clearly and mention any recent injuries or illnesses. The provider may also review your medical history and medications.

How to Prepare for Your Telemedicine Appointment

Before your visit, find a quiet, well-lit place with a good internet connection. Have a list of your symptoms, medications, and any questions ready. If possible, have a family member or friend nearby to assist. Wear comfortable clothing that allows you to show your abdomen if asked.

When to Seek Emergency Care Instead

If your abdominal pain is severe, sudden, or accompanied by symptoms like difficulty breathing, chest pain, persistent vomiting, bloody stools, or high fever, go to the emergency room or call emergency services immediately. Telemedicine is not suitable for urgent or life-threatening conditions.

What Telemedicine Can and Cannot Do

Telemedicine can help assess mild abdominal pain, provide advice on symptom management, and decide if further tests or in-person visits are needed. However, it cannot perform physical exams, imaging, or procedures. If your provider suspects a serious condition, they will recommend you seek in-person care.

After Your Video Visit

Follow any advice or prescriptions your provider gives. Monitor your symptoms and note any changes. If your pain worsens or new symptoms develop, contact your healthcare provider or seek emergency care. Keep a record of your visit and any instructions for future reference.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Find a quiet, private space with good lighting and internet connection.
• Prepare a list of your symptoms, including when they started and their nature.
• Have a list of current medications and medical history available.
• Write down any questions or concerns you want to discuss.
• Wear comfortable clothing that allows you to show your abdomen if needed.
• Ensure your device’s camera and microphone work properly before the visit.

After your tele-visit

• Follow your healthcare provider’s advice and prescribed treatments.
• Monitor your symptoms closely and note any changes.
• Schedule follow-up appointments if recommended.
• Seek immediate care if you develop any red flag symptoms.
• Keep a record of your visit summary and instructions for future reference.

FAQs

Can a doctor diagnose the cause of my abdominal pain through a video visit?

A video visit allows the provider to assess your symptoms and decide if further testing or an in-person exam is needed. While some causes can be suspected, a definitive diagnosis often requires physical examination or imaging.

What should I do if my abdominal pain gets worse after the video visit?

If your pain worsens or you develop new symptoms like fever, vomiting, or difficulty breathing, contact your healthcare provider promptly or seek emergency care.

Can I get prescriptions during a telemedicine visit for abdominal pain?

Your provider may prescribe medications appropriate for your symptoms during the video visit. However, some medications, especially controlled substances, may require an in-person evaluation.

Is telemedicine safe for evaluating abdominal pain?

Telemedicine is safe for evaluating mild abdominal pain and can help guide care. However, it is not suitable for severe or emergency situations, which require in-person treatment.

Sources

1. Abdominal Pain — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. Abdominal Pain: Evaluation and Management — Mayo Clinic.
3. Abdominal Pain — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
4. Telehealth: What You Need to Know — National Library of Medicine.

This telemedicine guidance is for educational and triage purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional in-person medical evaluation, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have severe symptoms or emergency signs, seek immediate medical care.