How to Prepare for a Video Visit About Dry Eye in Children

Audience: pediatric

Dry eye is a common condition that can make your child's eyes feel dry, itchy, or uncomfortable. Preparing for a video visit with a healthcare provider can help you get the most from the appointment. During the visit, the provider will ask about your child's symptoms, daily habits, and any eye care routines. They may also observe the eyes through the camera to check for signs of dryness or irritation. This guide helps parents and caregivers know what to expect, how to prepare, and when to seek urgent care. Remember, telemedicine can provide useful advice and management tips but cannot replace a full eye exam when needed. If your child has severe pain, vision changes, or eye injury, seek in-person care immediately.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Your child has sudden eye pain or discomfort that gets worse quickly — seek emergency care immediately.
• Your child experiences sudden changes in vision, such as blurriness or loss of sight — get urgent in-person evaluation.
• There is eye redness with swelling, discharge, or your child has a fever — contact a healthcare provider promptly.

What telemedicine can do

• Discussing symptoms and medical history related to dry eye.
• Providing advice on eye care routines and lifestyle changes.
• Recommending over-the-counter treatments and when to seek further care.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Performing detailed eye examinations or tests requiring special equipment.
• Diagnosing conditions that cause sudden vision loss or eye injury.
• Managing severe eye infections or emergencies requiring immediate treatment.

What is Dry Eye in Children?

Dry eye happens when the eyes do not make enough tears or the tears evaporate too quickly. This can cause discomfort, redness, and blurry vision. Children may rub their eyes often or complain about feeling like something is in their eye. Dry eye can be caused by allergies, screen time, or certain health conditions.

How Telemedicine Can Help

A video visit lets you talk to a healthcare provider from home. They can ask about your child's symptoms and watch their eyes through the camera. This helps decide if dry eye is likely and if home care or medicines might help. The provider can also guide you on how to protect your child's eyes and when to see a doctor in person.

What Telemedicine Cannot Do

Some eye problems need a close, hands-on exam that video cannot provide. Telemedicine cannot replace tests like measuring tear production or checking inside the eye. If your child has sudden vision loss, eye pain, or injury, telemedicine is not enough. You should get emergency care right away.

Preparing for the Video Visit

Before the appointment, gather information about your child's symptoms: when they started, what makes them better or worse, and any treatments tried. Have a list of medicines your child uses. Make sure the room has good lighting and the camera can clearly show your child's eyes. Be ready to describe your child's daily activities and screen time.

After the Video Visit

Follow the provider's advice about eye drops, warm compresses, or lifestyle changes. Monitor your child's symptoms and note any changes. Schedule an in-person visit if recommended or if symptoms worsen. Keep track of any new symptoms like pain, redness, or vision changes.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Find a quiet, well-lit room for the video visit.
• Have your child's medical history and list of current medications ready.
• Prepare to describe your child's symptoms clearly, including when they started and what affects them.
• Ensure the device camera can focus on your child's eyes for the provider to see clearly.
• Write down any questions or concerns you want to discuss during the visit.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the healthcare provider's instructions on eye care and medications.
• Watch for any changes in your child's symptoms or new warning signs.
• Schedule an in-person eye exam if recommended or symptoms worsen.
• Keep a record of treatments used and their effects to share at follow-up visits.

FAQs

Can dry eye in children be serious?

Dry eye often causes discomfort but usually is not serious. However, if left untreated, it can lead to eye irritation or infections. It's important to follow care advice and watch for worsening symptoms.

What can I do at home to help my child's dry eyes?

You can encourage your child to take breaks from screens, use humidifiers, and apply warm compresses if advised. Artificial tears or lubricating eye drops may also help, but use them as directed by your healthcare provider.

When should I take my child to see an eye doctor in person?

If your child has severe eye pain, sudden vision changes, eye injury, or signs of infection like redness and discharge, seek in-person care immediately. Also, if symptoms do not improve with home care, an eye doctor can provide a thorough exam.

How long does dry eye usually last in children?

Dry eye symptoms can vary. Some children have temporary symptoms that improve with simple treatments, while others may have ongoing issues that need regular care. Your provider can help determine the best plan.

Are there any risks with using eye drops for dry eye?

Most over-the-counter lubricating eye drops are safe when used as directed. Avoid using drops with preservatives too often, as they can sometimes cause irritation. Always follow your healthcare provider's recommendations.

Sources

1. Dry Eye Syndrome — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. Dry Eye — Mayo Clinic.
3. Dry Eye Disease: Symptoms and Treatment — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
4. Pediatric Eye Disorders — 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 has urgent or severe symptoms, please seek immediate medical attention.