What happens after a telemedicine visit for Biliary Colic (Gallbladder Pain) - Triage

Audience: pediatric

After a telemedicine visit for biliary colic, which is pain caused by gallbladder problems, parents and caregivers will usually receive advice on managing the child's symptoms at home. The healthcare provider may suggest pain relief methods, dietary changes, and signs to watch for that need urgent care. Sometimes, the provider will recommend further tests or an in-person visit to better understand the cause of the pain. It is important to follow the provider's instructions carefully and to seek emergency care if the child develops severe symptoms. Telemedicine helps quickly connect families with healthcare advice but cannot replace hands-on exams or urgent treatments when needed.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Severe, constant belly pain lasting more than 2 hours — seek emergency care immediately.
• Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice) — go to the emergency room or call emergency services.
• High fever with chills or vomiting that won’t stop — get urgent medical attention.

What telemedicine can do

• Initial symptom assessment and advice for biliary colic.
• Guidance on home care and pain management.
• Recommendations for when to seek in-person care or emergency services.
• Scheduling follow-up appointments or tests.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Performing physical exams or imaging tests.
• Diagnosing complicated gallbladder problems.
• Providing emergency treatment for severe symptoms.
• Prescribing controlled substances or surgical interventions.

What is Biliary Colic?

Biliary colic is a type of pain that happens when the gallbladder is upset, often due to gallstones blocking the flow of bile. In children, this can cause sudden, intense pain in the belly, usually on the right side or upper middle area. The pain may come and go and can last from minutes to hours.

What to Expect After Your Telemedicine Visit

After your telemedicine visit, the healthcare provider will review your child's symptoms and may suggest ways to ease the pain at home. This might include using safe pain medicines and eating a low-fat diet. They may also tell you what symptoms mean you should seek more urgent care. Sometimes, they will advise follow-up visits or tests like ultrasound to check the gallbladder.

Managing Symptoms at Home

You can help your child feel better by:

Avoid fatty or greasy foods until the provider says it's okay.

When to Seek Emergency Care

If your child develops any of these signs, get emergency medical help right away:

These could mean a serious problem needing urgent treatment.

Follow-Up Care and Tests

Your provider may ask you to schedule an in-person visit or get imaging tests like an ultrasound to look at the gallbladder. This helps confirm the diagnosis and decide if further treatment is needed. Follow all instructions and attend follow-up appointments as advised.

How Telemedicine Helps

Telemedicine lets you connect with healthcare providers quickly from home. It is useful for initial advice, symptom checks, and deciding if your child needs to see a doctor in person. However, some situations require hands-on exams or urgent care that telemedicine cannot provide.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Have a list of your child's symptoms ready, including when they started and how severe they are.
• Note any medicines your child is currently taking.
• Prepare questions or concerns you want to discuss with the provider.
• Ensure you have a quiet, private space with good internet connection for the telemedicine visit.
• Have a way to take notes during the visit for important advice or instructions.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the provider’s instructions on pain relief and diet.
• Watch your child closely for any worsening or new symptoms.
• Schedule any recommended follow-up visits or tests promptly.
• Keep a record of your child’s symptoms and any medicines given.
• Seek emergency care immediately if red flag symptoms develop.

FAQs

Can telemedicine tell me if my child needs surgery for gallbladder pain?

Telemedicine can help assess symptoms and advise if your child needs to see a doctor in person for further tests. However, only an in-person healthcare provider can determine if surgery is needed after proper examination and imaging.

What pain medicines are safe for my child after a telemedicine visit?

Your healthcare provider will recommend pain medicines that are safe and appropriate for your child's age and health. Always follow their instructions and do not give medicines without guidance.

How soon should I seek emergency care after a telemedicine visit?

If your child develops severe belly pain that does not improve, jaundice (yellow skin or eyes), high fever with chills, or persistent vomiting, seek emergency care immediately, regardless of the telemedicine visit outcome.

Can diet changes help with biliary colic?

Yes, eating low-fat, small meals can help reduce gallbladder pain. Avoid fatty or greasy foods until your healthcare provider says it is safe to eat them again.

What if my internet connection is poor during the telemedicine visit?

Try to find a location with better connection or use a phone call if video is not possible. If you cannot connect with your provider, seek in-person care if your child's symptoms are severe or worsening.

Sources

1. Biliary Colic — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. Gallstones in Children — American Academy of Pediatrics.
3. Gallbladder Disease — Mayo Clinic.
4. Telemedicine: What You Need to Know — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

This article provides general information about biliary colic and telemedicine follow-up. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your child's healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or emergency.