How to prepare for a video visit about Diarrhea (Acute) in Children

Audience: pediatric

Acute diarrhea in children is a common condition that often resolves on its own but can sometimes require medical attention. Preparing for a video visit about your child's diarrhea can help the healthcare provider understand the situation better and offer appropriate advice. During the visit, you may be asked about your child's symptoms, hydration, diet, and any other health concerns. It is important to observe warning signs such as dehydration, blood in stool, or high fever, which may require urgent care. Telemedicine can help assess many cases of acute diarrhea by providing guidance on hydration and symptom management, but it cannot replace in-person exams when serious symptoms are present. Being ready with information and questions will make the video visit more effective and supportive for your child's health.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Child shows signs of severe dehydration: very dry mouth, no tears, sunken eyes, or extreme sleepiness — seek emergency care immediately.
• Presence of blood or black stools in the diarrhea — contact healthcare provider urgently.
• High fever above 39°C (102°F) that does not improve or repeated vomiting preventing fluids — seek urgent evaluation.

What telemedicine can do

• Assessing mild to moderate diarrhea symptoms in children.
• Providing guidance on hydration and diet management.
• Determining if symptoms require in-person evaluation.
• Answering questions about symptom monitoring and care.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Diagnosing causes that require physical examination or lab tests.
• Managing severe dehydration or complications needing immediate treatment.
• Treating children with blood in stool or persistent high fever without in-person assessment.

What is Acute Diarrhea in Children?

Acute diarrhea means your child has loose or watery stools that start suddenly and last a short time, usually less than two weeks. It can be caused by infections like viruses or bacteria, or sometimes by food reactions. Most cases improve with simple care at home.

Preparing for the Video Visit

Before the visit, gather information about your child's symptoms: how long the diarrhea has lasted, number of stools per day, presence of blood or mucus, and any other symptoms like fever or vomiting. Have a list of any medicines your child is taking and note how much they are drinking and eating. Find a quiet place with good internet connection for the visit.

What to Expect During the Video Visit

The healthcare provider will ask questions about your child's symptoms and may ask to see your child on camera to check for signs like dryness of mouth or sunken eyes. They will give advice on how to keep your child hydrated and when to seek further care. They may recommend follow-up if symptoms persist or worsen.

When to Seek Emergency Care

If your child shows signs of severe dehydration, such as very dry mouth, no tears when crying, sunken eyes, or is unusually sleepy or irritable, seek emergency care immediately. Also, if there is blood in the stool, persistent high fever, or repeated vomiting preventing fluid intake, urgent evaluation is needed.

Managing Acute Diarrhea at Home

Most children recover with plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration. Oral rehydration solutions are best, but breast milk or regular fluids can help. Avoid sugary drinks and limit fatty or heavy foods until the diarrhea improves. Keep good hygiene to prevent spread of infection.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Note the start date and duration of diarrhea.
• Count the number of stools per day and note their appearance.
• Check for presence of blood or mucus in stool.
• Record any additional symptoms like fever, vomiting, or lethargy.
• List all medications and supplements your child is taking.
• Prepare a quiet, well-lit space with good internet for the video call.
• Have a way to measure your child's temperature if possible.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the hydration and feeding advice given by the provider.
• Monitor your child’s symptoms closely for any worsening or new signs.
• Keep track of stool frequency and appearance to report if needed.
• Schedule a follow-up visit if symptoms persist beyond a few days or worsen.
• Seek emergency care if red flags develop after the visit.
• Maintain good hygiene to prevent spreading infection to others.

FAQs

Can I give my child any medicine to stop diarrhea?

Most often, medicines to stop diarrhea are not recommended for young children because they can cause side effects and do not treat the cause. Focus on keeping your child hydrated and follow your healthcare provider's advice.

How can I tell if my child is dehydrated?

Signs of dehydration include dry mouth, no tears when crying, sunken eyes, decreased urination (fewer wet diapers), and unusual sleepiness or irritability. If you notice these, seek medical care promptly.

Is it safe to breastfeed or give formula during diarrhea?

Yes, continue breastfeeding or formula feeding during diarrhea. These provide important nutrition and fluids. You may also offer oral rehydration solutions as advised by your healthcare provider.

When should I call the doctor again after the video visit?

Contact your healthcare provider if your child's diarrhea lasts more than a few days, if new symptoms develop, or if your child shows any signs of dehydration or worsening condition.

Sources

1. Diarrhea in Children — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. Managing Acute Diarrhea in Children — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
3. Diarrhea - Symptoms and Causes — Mayo Clinic.
4. Acute Diarrhea in Children: Treatment and Prevention — American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP).

This telemedicine guidance is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for in-person medical care. If your child has severe symptoms or you are concerned about their health, please seek immediate medical attention.