What Happens After a Telemedicine Visit for Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)

Audience: pediatric

Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) is a condition where the prostate gland becomes larger, which can cause problems with urination. After a telemedicine visit for BPH, your healthcare provider will typically discuss your symptoms, review any tests, and suggest a plan to manage the condition. This may include lifestyle changes, medications, or further testing. Telemedicine allows you to have this visit from home, making it easier to get care. However, it is important to watch for warning signs that need urgent attention. This guide explains what to expect after your telemedicine visit, how to prepare, and when to seek in-person care. Remember, this information is for education and is not a diagnosis or treatment plan.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Sudden inability to urinate — seek emergency care immediately.
• Severe lower abdominal pain — contact healthcare provider promptly.
• Blood in urine or high fever with chills — get urgent medical evaluation.

What telemedicine can do

• Initial symptom discussion and history taking for BPH.
• Reviewing test results and medication management.
• Providing lifestyle advice and education about BPH.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Emergency situations like inability to urinate or severe pain.
• Procedures such as catheter insertion or surgery.
• Physical examinations requiring direct contact.

What to Expect After Your Telemedicine Visit

After your telemedicine visit for BPH, your healthcare provider may suggest ways to manage your symptoms. This often includes lifestyle advice like reducing caffeine and fluid intake before bedtime, and scheduling bathroom visits. They may also prescribe medications to help relax the prostate or reduce its size. Sometimes, your provider might recommend tests like urine tests or imaging to learn more about your condition. Follow their instructions carefully and ask questions if you are unsure about the next steps.

Common Lifestyle Changes for BPH

Many people with BPH find relief by making simple lifestyle changes. These include:

These changes can help improve symptoms and are often recommended alongside medical treatments.

When to Seek In-Person Care

While telemedicine is useful for managing BPH, some symptoms require urgent in-person evaluation. Contact a healthcare provider or emergency services if you experience:

These signs may indicate complications that need immediate attention.

Preparing for Your Telemedicine Visit

To get the most from your telemedicine visit, prepare by:

Being prepared helps your provider understand your condition better.

Aftercare Steps to Follow

After your telemedicine visit, follow these steps:

Keeping track of your health helps manage BPH effectively.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• List your urinary symptoms and how long they have lasted.
• Gather information about current medications and supplements.
• Prepare questions or concerns to discuss.
• Ensure your device has a stable internet connection and working camera and microphone.
• Find a quiet, private place for your telemedicine visit.

After your tele-visit

• Take prescribed medications as directed.
• Implement recommended lifestyle changes.
• Schedule and attend any follow-up tests or appointments.
• Monitor symptoms and report any worsening or new symptoms.
• Contact healthcare provider if red-flag symptoms appear.

FAQs

Can telemedicine diagnose BPH?

Telemedicine can help your provider understand your symptoms and decide if further tests are needed, but a full diagnosis often requires physical exams or tests that may need to be done in person.

What should I do if I cannot urinate suddenly?

This is a medical emergency. You should seek immediate in-person care or go to the emergency room right away.

Are lifestyle changes enough to manage BPH?

Lifestyle changes can help reduce symptoms but may not be enough for everyone. Your provider will guide you on whether medications or other treatments are needed.

How often should I have follow-up visits?

Follow-up frequency varies based on your symptoms and treatment. Your healthcare provider will recommend a schedule that suits your needs.

Is BPH common in children?

BPH is very uncommon in children and usually affects older men. If you have urinary symptoms as a child, other causes are more likely and should be evaluated by a healthcare provider.

Sources

1. Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) — Mayo Clinic.
3. Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia: Overview — Merck Manuals Consumer Version.
4. Telehealth: Delivering Care Safely During COVID-19 — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

This information is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Telemedicine can support care but is not a substitute for in-person evaluation when needed. Always seek immediate medical attention for urgent symptoms or emergencies.