What happens after a telemedicine visit for Contact Dermatitis

Audience: pediatric

After a telemedicine visit for contact dermatitis in children, families often receive guidance on how to manage the skin reaction at home. Contact dermatitis is a skin irritation caused by touching certain substances. The healthcare provider may suggest avoiding the irritant or allergen, using soothing creams, and keeping the skin clean and dry. Often, medications like topical steroids or antihistamines are recommended to reduce itching and inflammation. Follow-up care might include monitoring the rash and symptoms, with instructions on when to seek further medical help. Telemedicine allows quick access to advice but may require an in-person visit if the rash worsens or does not improve. Understanding the next steps can help families care for their child’s skin safely and comfortably.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Rapid spreading of rash or swelling around the eyes or mouth — seek emergency care immediately.
• Signs of infection such as pus, increased redness, warmth, or fever — contact your healthcare provider promptly.
• Difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat, or severe allergic reaction symptoms — call emergency services immediately.

What telemedicine can do

• Initial evaluation of rash and symptoms through video or photos.
• Providing guidance on home care and avoidance of irritants.
• Prescribing topical medications or recommending over-the-counter treatments.
• Monitoring progress and advising on follow-up care.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Severe allergic reactions requiring emergency treatment.
• Rashes with signs of serious infection needing immediate in-person care.
• Cases where physical examination or skin testing is necessary for diagnosis.
• Treatment requiring procedures like skin biopsies or injections.

Understanding Contact Dermatitis

Contact dermatitis happens when the skin reacts to something it touches, like soaps, plants, or metals. It can cause redness, itching, and sometimes blisters. In children, this condition is common and usually not serious but can be uncomfortable. Recognizing the cause helps prevent future reactions.

What to Expect After Your Telemedicine Visit

During your telemedicine visit, the healthcare provider will ask about your child's symptoms and look at the rash using video or photos. After the visit, you will likely receive instructions on how to care for the rash at home. This may include avoiding the irritant, applying creams or ointments, and keeping the skin clean. The provider may also suggest over-the-counter or prescription medicines to ease symptoms.

Home Care Tips for Contact Dermatitis

\1

When to Seek In-Person Care

If your child's rash gets worse, spreads quickly, or shows signs of infection such as increased redness, swelling, warmth, pus, or fever, seek medical care in person. Also, if the rash does not improve after following the care plan from your telemedicine visit, an in-person evaluation may be needed to adjust treatment.

Follow-Up and Monitoring

Keep track of your child's symptoms and skin changes. Follow any instructions about follow-up visits or additional tests. If your healthcare provider recommends a follow-up telemedicine or in-person visit, try to attend it to ensure the rash is healing properly.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Have clear photos of the rash from different angles and in good lighting.
• List any new products, plants, or substances your child has touched recently.
• Prepare to describe symptoms such as itching, pain, or swelling.
• Have a list of any medications or creams your child is currently using.
• Find a quiet, well-lit place for the telemedicine visit where you can show the rash clearly.
• Prepare questions you want to ask the healthcare provider.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the healthcare provider’s instructions for skin care and medication use.
• Avoid known irritants or allergens as advised.
• Monitor the rash daily for any changes or worsening.
• Keep your child’s skin clean and moisturized with recommended products.
• Schedule or attend any recommended follow-up visits.
• Seek in-person care if red flags or worsening symptoms appear.

FAQs

Can contact dermatitis be cured after a telemedicine visit?

Contact dermatitis often improves with proper care and avoiding the cause. A telemedicine visit can help guide treatment, but healing may take days to weeks depending on the severity.

What if my child’s rash does not get better?

If the rash does not improve or worsens despite following care instructions, contact your healthcare provider. An in-person visit may be needed for further evaluation.

Can I use any creams or lotions on my child's rash?

Use only the creams or lotions recommended by your healthcare provider. Avoid products with fragrances or dyes that might irritate the skin further.

Is it safe to give my child antihistamines for itching?

Some antihistamines may be safe and helpful for itching, but always use medications as directed by your healthcare provider to ensure safety and effectiveness.

How can I prevent contact dermatitis in my child?

Identify and avoid substances that cause irritation or allergic reactions. Use gentle skin care products and protect your child's skin during activities that might expose them to irritants.

Sources

1. Contact Dermatitis — MedlinePlus | U.S. National Library of Medicine / National Institutes of Health.
2. Contact Dermatitis: Overview and Treatment — Mayo Clinic.
3. Dermatitis (Eczema) — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
4. Contact Dermatitis — Merck Manuals: Consumer Version.

This telemedicine guidance is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for in-person medical care. If your child's condition worsens or you have concerns, seek care from a healthcare professional in person or emergency services as needed.