How to prepare for a video visit about Allergic Conjunctivitis

Audience: pediatric

Allergic conjunctivitis is an eye condition common in children that causes redness, itching, and watery eyes. It happens when the eyes react to allergens like pollen, dust, or pet dander. Preparing for a video visit about allergic conjunctivitis can help your healthcare provider understand your child's symptoms and offer advice. During the visit, you may be asked about your child's symptoms, when they started, and any treatments tried. You might also show the child's eyes on camera to help the provider see the condition. This guide explains how to get ready for the video visit, what telemedicine can and cannot do, and what signs need urgent care. Remember, this information is for education only and does not replace in-person medical care if needed.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Severe eye pain or discomfort — seek emergency care immediately.
• Sudden changes in vision or loss of vision — get urgent medical attention.
• Swelling spreading beyond the eye or intense redness — go to emergency services promptly.

What telemedicine can do

• Assessment of eye redness, itching, and watering symptoms.
• Review of medical history and current treatments for allergic conjunctivitis.
• Providing advice on allergen avoidance and symptom management.
• Prescribing or recommending over-the-counter treatments when appropriate.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Performing detailed eye examinations requiring special equipment.
• Diagnosing or managing serious eye infections or injuries.
• Treating sudden vision loss or severe eye pain.
• Providing emergency care for severe allergic reactions affecting breathing or circulation.

What is Allergic Conjunctivitis?

Allergic conjunctivitis is an inflammation of the thin layer covering the white part of the eye and inside the eyelids. It happens when the eyes come into contact with allergens like pollen, dust mites, or pet hair. Children with this condition often have red, itchy, and watery eyes. It is not contagious and usually improves with proper care.

How to Prepare for the Video Visit

Before the visit, find a quiet, well-lit place where you can show your child's eyes clearly on camera. Have a list of your child's symptoms ready, including when they started and how severe they are. Write down any treatments or medicines your child has used. Be ready to answer questions about allergies or other health conditions your child may have.

What to Expect During the Video Visit

The healthcare provider will ask about your child's symptoms and medical history. They may ask you to show your child's eyes close to the camera to check for redness or swelling. Based on this information, they may suggest treatments like eye drops or ways to avoid allergens. They will also tell you when to seek in-person care.

When to Seek Emergency Care

If your child has severe eye pain, sudden vision changes, intense redness, or swelling that spreads beyond the eye, seek emergency medical care immediately. Also, if your child has a fever with eye symptoms or if symptoms worsen quickly, these are signs to get urgent help.

Managing Allergic Conjunctivitis at Home

You can help your child by keeping their hands clean and avoiding rubbing their eyes. Using cool compresses on the eyes may ease discomfort. Avoid exposure to known allergens when possible. Follow any treatment plans provided by your healthcare provider carefully.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Choose a quiet, well-lit room for the video visit.
• Have a device with a working camera and internet connection ready.
• Prepare a list of your child's symptoms, including start time and severity.
• Note any medications or treatments your child has used.
• Be ready to show your child's eyes clearly on camera.
• Have a list of questions or concerns you want to discuss.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the treatment plan or advice given by the healthcare provider.
• Monitor your child's symptoms and note any changes.
• Avoid known allergens as much as possible.
• Use cold compresses to relieve eye discomfort if recommended.
• Seek in-person care if symptoms worsen or red flags appear.
• Schedule a follow-up visit if advised by the provider.

FAQs

Can allergic conjunctivitis be cured?

Allergic conjunctivitis often improves when allergens are avoided and symptoms are treated. While it may not be completely cured, managing exposure and using treatments can keep symptoms under control.

Are eye drops safe for children?

Many eye drops are safe for children when used as directed. Always follow the healthcare provider's instructions and avoid using any medication without advice.

How can I tell if my child's eye redness is serious?

If your child's eye redness is accompanied by severe pain, vision changes, swelling beyond the eye, or fever, seek emergency care. Mild redness with itching and watering is often due to allergies.

Can allergic conjunctivitis cause vision loss?

Allergic conjunctivitis itself typically does not cause vision loss. However, if your child experiences sudden vision changes, seek medical attention immediately.

Sources

1. Allergic Conjunctivitis — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. Allergic Conjunctivitis: Symptoms and Causes — Mayo Clinic.
3. Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye) — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
4. Allergic Conjunctivitis — Merck Manuals Consumer Version.

This telemedicine guidance is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for in-person medical care. If your child's symptoms are severe or worsen, seek prompt medical attention.