What Happens After a Telemedicine Visit for Asthma (Mild Exacerbation)

Audience: adult

After a telemedicine visit for a mild asthma exacerbation, you will usually receive guidance on managing your symptoms at home. This may include instructions on using your inhalers correctly, adjusting medications temporarily, and monitoring your breathing. Your healthcare provider may recommend follow-up care, such as another telemedicine appointment or an in-person visit if symptoms persist or worsen. You might also get advice on avoiding triggers that can worsen asthma. It is important to watch for warning signs that need urgent care, such as difficulty speaking, severe shortness of breath, or bluish lips. Telemedicine can help you get timely advice and support, but it cannot replace emergency care or detailed physical exams. Following your provider’s instructions and knowing when to seek emergency help can help you manage your asthma safely and effectively.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Severe shortness of breath that does not improve after using a rescue inhaler — seek emergency care immediately.
• Difficulty speaking or walking due to breathlessness — call emergency services right away.
• Blue or gray color around lips or face indicating low oxygen — get urgent medical help immediately.

What telemedicine can do

• Reviewing symptoms and medication use for mild asthma exacerbations.
• Providing guidance on inhaler technique and asthma action plans.
• Monitoring symptom progress and advising on when to seek further care.
• Educating patients on avoiding asthma triggers and managing mild symptoms at home.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Performing physical lung examinations or lung function tests.
• Treating severe or life-threatening asthma attacks.
• Administering emergency treatments such as oxygen or nebulized medications.
• Diagnosing other conditions that may mimic asthma exacerbations.

What to Expect Immediately After Your Telemedicine Visit

After your telemedicine visit, your healthcare provider will likely review your current asthma action plan with you. They may suggest temporary changes to your medication, such as using a rescue inhaler more frequently. You will be advised on how to monitor your symptoms closely and when to seek further help. Expect clear instructions on inhaler technique and symptom tracking.

Managing Your Asthma at Home

You will be encouraged to continue your regular asthma medications and use your rescue inhaler as directed. Avoid known triggers such as smoke, allergens, or strong odors. Keep track of your symptoms, peak flow readings if you use a peak flow meter, and any side effects from medications. Rest and stay hydrated to support your recovery.

When to Seek Emergency Care

If you experience any of the following, seek emergency medical care immediately:

These signs indicate a more serious asthma attack that requires urgent treatment.

Follow-Up Care After Your Telemedicine Visit

Your provider may schedule a follow-up telemedicine or in-person visit to assess your recovery. They might recommend lung function tests or adjustments to your long-term asthma management plan. If symptoms improve, continue your prescribed treatment and maintain regular monitoring to prevent future exacerbations.

How Telemedicine Supports Asthma Care

Telemedicine allows you to access healthcare advice quickly without leaving home. It is useful for managing mild exacerbations, reviewing medications, and education on asthma control. However, it cannot perform physical exams or emergency treatments, so in-person care may be needed if symptoms worsen.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Have your current asthma medications and inhalers nearby.
• Prepare a list of your symptoms and when they started.
• Note any recent exposures to asthma triggers.
• Have a peak flow meter ready if you use one and know how to use it.
• Be in a quiet, well-lit space with a reliable internet connection for the visit.
• Write down any questions or concerns you want to discuss with your provider.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the medication instructions provided by your healthcare provider.
• Monitor your symptoms regularly and keep a symptom diary if advised.
• Avoid known asthma triggers to reduce the chance of worsening symptoms.
• Schedule and attend any recommended follow-up appointments.
• Seek emergency care immediately if you notice any red flag symptoms.
• Update your asthma action plan with your provider during follow-up visits.

FAQs

Can telemedicine visits replace all in-person asthma care?

Telemedicine is helpful for managing mild asthma symptoms and medication guidance but cannot replace physical exams, lung function tests, or emergency treatment. In-person visits may still be needed for comprehensive care.

What should I do if my symptoms get worse after the telemedicine visit?

If your symptoms worsen, especially if you experience severe shortness of breath, difficulty speaking, or blue lips, seek emergency medical care immediately. Contact your healthcare provider promptly for further advice.

How can I prepare for a telemedicine visit about my asthma?

Prepare by having your medications handy, noting your symptoms, and having a quiet space with good internet. If you use a peak flow meter, have it ready. Write down questions to discuss with your provider.

Will my provider adjust my asthma medications during a telemedicine visit?

Yes, your provider may suggest temporary changes to your medication based on your symptoms. Always follow their instructions carefully and report any side effects or concerns.

How do I know if I need to go to the emergency room?

Seek emergency care if you have severe shortness of breath that doesn’t improve with inhaler use, difficulty speaking or walking, or blue/gray lips or face. These are signs of a serious asthma attack needing urgent treatment.

Sources

1. Asthma — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. Asthma Care Quick Reference: Diagnosing and Managing Asthma — National Asthma Education and Prevention Program, National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute.
3. Asthma — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
4. Asthma Management and Prevention — Mayo Clinic.

This telemedicine guidance is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for in-person medical care. If you experience severe symptoms or emergency signs, seek immediate medical attention.