How to prepare for a video visit about Anemia (Suspected) - Triage

Audience: adult

If you think you might have anemia, a video visit with a healthcare provider can help start the process of finding out what’s going on. Anemia means your blood may not have enough healthy red blood cells, which can make you feel tired, weak, or short of breath. During the video visit, your provider will ask about your symptoms, medical history, and lifestyle. They may also guide you on what tests you might need, such as blood tests. Preparing well for the visit can help you get the most out of it. Remember, this visit is for education and triage — it’s not a diagnosis or treatment plan. If you have serious symptoms, seek urgent care in person. This guide will help you get ready, know what telemedicine can and cannot do for suspected anemia, and what to watch for afterward.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Sudden or severe shortness of breath — seek emergency care immediately.
• Chest pain or pressure — call emergency services right away.
• Severe weakness, fainting, or confusion — get urgent medical attention.

What telemedicine can do

• Initial symptom discussion and medical history review.
• Guidance on whether blood tests or in-person exams are needed.
• Education about anemia and lifestyle advice.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Performing physical exams or blood tests.
• Diagnosing the exact cause of anemia.
• Emergency treatment for severe symptoms.

What is anemia and why does it matter?

Anemia is a condition where your blood has fewer healthy red blood cells than normal. These cells carry oxygen to your body. Without enough oxygen, you might feel tired, dizzy, or short of breath. Anemia can have many causes, including low iron, vitamin deficiencies, or other health problems. Understanding your symptoms is the first step to finding the cause.

How telemedicine can help with suspected anemia

A video visit lets you talk to a healthcare provider from home. They can ask about your symptoms, medical history, diet, and lifestyle. They may help decide if you need blood tests or other exams. Telemedicine is a good first step to guide you on what to do next and when to seek in-person care.

What telemedicine cannot do for anemia

While telemedicine can help with initial assessment and advice, it cannot perform physical exams or blood tests. It also cannot provide immediate treatment for severe anemia or emergencies. If your symptoms are severe or worsening, you should seek in-person care promptly.

Preparing for your video visit

Before your appointment, write down your symptoms, when they started, and how they affect you. Have a list of your current medicines and any health conditions. Find a quiet, well-lit place with good internet. Make sure your device camera and microphone work. Be ready to discuss your diet and any bleeding or medical issues.

After your video visit: next steps

Follow your provider’s advice on getting blood tests or seeing a specialist if needed. Keep track of any new or worsening symptoms. If you get test results, have them ready for follow-up visits. Maintain a healthy diet and avoid activities that worsen symptoms until you know more.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Make a list of your symptoms and when they started.
• Note any medicines, supplements, or health conditions you have.
• Find a quiet, private space with good lighting and internet.
• Test your device’s camera and microphone before the visit.
• Have a notebook or app ready to take notes during the visit.

After your tele-visit

• Schedule and complete any recommended blood tests.
• Monitor your symptoms and report any worsening.
• Follow dietary or lifestyle advice given by your provider.
• Prepare for possible follow-up visits with test results.
• Seek in-person care if you develop red-flag symptoms.

FAQs

What symptoms suggest I might have anemia?

Common symptoms include feeling very tired, weakness, pale skin, shortness of breath, dizziness, or a fast heartbeat. These symptoms can be caused by many conditions, so a healthcare provider can help figure out the cause.

Will I need blood tests during a telemedicine visit?

Your provider may recommend blood tests to check your red blood cell levels and other markers. While these tests can’t be done during the video visit, your provider can guide you on where and how to get them done safely.

Can anemia be treated through telemedicine?

Telemedicine can help start the process by assessing symptoms and advising on tests or referrals. However, treatment usually depends on test results and may require in-person care for proper management.

What should I do if I feel worse after the video visit?

If you develop severe symptoms like chest pain, fainting, or severe shortness of breath, seek emergency care immediately. For other worsening symptoms, contact your healthcare provider promptly.

Sources

1. Anemia — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. Iron-Deficiency Anemia — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
3. Anemia: Symptoms and causes — Mayo Clinic.
4. Anemia — Merck Manuals Consumer Version.

This telemedicine guide is for education and triage only. It is not a substitute for in-person medical care, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have severe or worsening symptoms, seek emergency or in-person care immediately.