What Happens After a Telemedicine Visit for Chronic Sinusitis (Stable) - Follow-up

Audience: pediatric

After a telemedicine visit for stable chronic sinusitis in children, families can expect clear guidance on managing symptoms and follow-up care. The healthcare provider will review symptoms, medication use, and any changes since the last visit. They may suggest continuing current treatments such as nasal sprays or saline rinses and advise on when to seek further care. Often, no immediate in-person visit is needed unless symptoms worsen. Families will receive instructions on monitoring for signs that require urgent attention. Telemedicine follow-up helps keep track of the child's condition while minimizing travel and exposure risks. It is important to follow the provider's advice and keep scheduled appointments to support ongoing health. This guidance is educational and does not replace in-person medical evaluation when needed.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• High fever lasting more than 3 days — seek immediate in-person care.
• Swelling or redness around the eyes — get urgent medical evaluation.
• Difficulty breathing or severe facial pain — go to emergency services promptly.

What telemedicine can do

• Reviewing stable symptoms and medication use.
• Providing education on home care and symptom management.
• Scheduling follow-up appointments and answering questions.
• Identifying when in-person care is necessary.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Performing physical exams requiring specialized equipment.
• Diagnosing new or worsening complications needing urgent care.
• Administering treatments or procedures in person.
• Ordering imaging or laboratory tests that require a visit to a facility.

Review of Symptoms and Treatment

During the telemedicine visit, the healthcare provider will ask about your child's current symptoms, such as nasal congestion, facial pain, or headaches. They will check if the child is using prescribed treatments correctly, like nasal corticosteroids or saline sprays. This helps decide if the current plan is working or needs adjustment.

Managing Symptoms at Home

You may be advised to continue home care measures, including:

These steps often help control symptoms in stable chronic sinusitis.

When to Seek In-Person Care

If your child develops new or worsening symptoms, such as high fever, severe facial pain, swelling around the eyes, or difficulty breathing, an in-person evaluation is important. The provider will explain which signs require urgent attention to ensure safety.

Scheduling Follow-Up Visits

The provider may schedule another telemedicine or in-person visit to monitor progress. Keeping these appointments helps track your child's condition and adjust treatment as needed. Be sure to note the date and time of follow-up visits.

Medication and Treatment Adjustments

If symptoms have changed, the provider might adjust medications or suggest additional treatments. Always follow the instructions carefully and ask questions if anything is unclear during the tele-visit.

Support and Resources

You can ask the provider for educational materials or resources to better understand chronic sinusitis and its management. Knowing more about the condition helps you care for your child effectively.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Write down current symptoms and any changes since last visit.
• List all medications and treatments your child is using.
• Prepare questions or concerns to discuss with the provider.
• Ensure a quiet, well-lit space with good internet connection for the visit.
• Have a device ready with camera and microphone enabled.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the treatment plan and medication instructions provided.
• Monitor your child’s symptoms daily and note any changes.
• Keep scheduled follow-up appointments as advised.
• Contact your healthcare provider if red-flag symptoms appear.
• Use recommended home care measures consistently.

FAQs

Can telemedicine visits replace all in-person visits for chronic sinusitis?

Telemedicine visits are helpful for monitoring stable chronic sinusitis and managing ongoing care. However, they cannot replace in-person visits when a physical exam, imaging, or urgent treatment is needed.

What should I do if my child’s symptoms suddenly worsen after the telemedicine visit?

If your child develops severe symptoms like high fever, swelling around the eyes, or difficulty breathing, seek in-person medical care immediately, such as going to an emergency room.

How can I help my child feel better at home?

Using saline nasal rinses, warm compresses, keeping your child hydrated, and avoiding irritants can help relieve symptoms. Follow your provider’s specific advice for home care.

Will the provider prescribe new medications during a telemedicine visit?

Yes, if needed, the provider can prescribe or adjust medications during the telemedicine visit based on your child’s current condition and symptoms.

How do I prepare for a telemedicine visit?

Prepare by noting symptoms, listing medications, having questions ready, and ensuring your device has a working camera and microphone in a quiet space.

Sources

1. Chronic Sinusitis — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. Sinus Infection (Sinusitis) — Mayo Clinic.
3. Sinusitis — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
4. Chronic Sinusitis in Children — American Academy of Pediatrics.

This telemedicine guidance is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for in-person medical care. If your child’s symptoms worsen or you have concerns, seek evaluation from a healthcare professional in person.