How to prepare for a video visit about Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis)

Audience: adult

Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a common skin condition that causes redness, itching, and dryness. Preparing for a video visit about eczema can help you get the most from your appointment. During the visit, your healthcare provider will ask about your symptoms, skin care routine, and any treatments you have tried. They may also ask to see close-up views of your skin to better understand your condition. This guide helps you prepare for your telemedicine visit by suggesting what information to gather, how to set up your video call, and what questions to ask. Remember, while telemedicine is helpful for managing eczema, some situations may require in-person care. If you notice signs like severe pain, spreading infection, or difficulty breathing, seek immediate medical attention. This information is for education only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice or diagnosis.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Severe skin pain or swelling that worsens quickly — seek urgent medical care.
• Signs of skin infection like pus, warmth, or fever — contact a healthcare provider immediately.
• Difficulty breathing, swelling of face or throat — call emergency services right away.

What telemedicine can do

• Initial assessment of eczema symptoms and history.
• Review of skin condition through video for mild to moderate cases.
• Discussion of treatment options and skin care advice.
• Follow-up visits to monitor treatment progress and adjust care.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Severe eczema flare-ups requiring urgent physical examination.
• Suspected skin infections needing laboratory tests or procedures.
• Emergency symptoms such as breathing difficulty or severe allergic reactions.
• Procedures requiring direct skin sampling or in-person interventions.

What is Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis)?

Eczema is a skin condition that often causes dry, itchy, and inflamed skin. It can appear anywhere on the body and may come and go over time. Many people with eczema have sensitive skin that reacts to irritants or allergens. Understanding your symptoms helps your healthcare provider suggest the best care.

How to Prepare for Your Video Visit

Before your video visit, find a quiet, well-lit place where you can show your skin clearly. Have your medical history ready, including any allergies, current skin care products, and medications. Write down your symptoms, when they started, and any triggers you have noticed. Prepare questions you want to ask your provider.

What to Expect During the Video Visit

Your healthcare provider will ask about your symptoms and skin care habits. They may ask you to show affected skin areas using your camera to assess redness, dryness, or swelling. They will discuss treatment options and ways to manage your eczema. Be honest and clear about your symptoms and concerns.

Managing Eczema at Home

Your provider may recommend moisturizing regularly, avoiding irritants, and using prescribed medications. Keeping your skin hydrated and protected can reduce flare-ups. Follow your provider's instructions carefully and report any side effects or worsening symptoms.

When to Seek In-Person Care

If you experience severe pain, spreading redness, swelling, fever, or signs of infection such as pus, you should seek in-person medical care promptly. Difficulty breathing or swelling of the face or throat requires emergency care. Telemedicine is helpful but cannot replace urgent physical examination when needed.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Choose a quiet, well-lit space for your video call.
• Have your medical history and list of current medications ready.
• Prepare to show affected skin areas clearly on camera.
• Write down your symptoms, when they started, and any triggers.
• List any questions or concerns you want to discuss with your provider.
• Test your device’s camera and internet connection before the visit.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the treatment plan and skin care advice given by your provider.
• Use moisturizers and medications as directed.
• Monitor your skin for any changes or side effects.
• Schedule follow-up visits as recommended.
• Seek in-person care if symptoms worsen or red flags appear.
• Keep a diary of symptoms and triggers to discuss in future visits.

FAQs

Can I get a diagnosis for eczema through a video visit?

Yes, many healthcare providers can assess and diagnose eczema during a video visit by reviewing your symptoms and examining your skin via camera. However, some cases may require in-person evaluation for confirmation.

What should I do if my eczema gets worse after the video visit?

If your symptoms worsen, especially with signs of infection or severe discomfort, contact your healthcare provider promptly. You may need an in-person visit or urgent care depending on the severity.

How can I best show my skin during the video visit?

Use good lighting and position your camera close to the affected areas without losing focus. Avoid shadows or glare. You may need help from someone else to hold the camera for clearer views.

Are there common triggers I should avoid to help manage eczema?

Yes, common triggers include harsh soaps, fragrances, certain fabrics, extreme temperatures, and stress. Your provider can help identify your specific triggers and suggest ways to avoid them.

Can telemedicine visits replace all eczema care?

Telemedicine is useful for many aspects of eczema care, such as follow-ups and mild cases. However, it cannot replace in-person exams for severe symptoms, infections, or procedures that require physical tests.

Sources

1. Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis) — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine / National Institutes of Health.
2. Atopic Dermatitis — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
3. Atopic Dermatitis (Eczema) - Symptoms and Causes — Mayo Clinic.
4. Atopic Dermatitis (Eczema) — Merck Manuals: Consumer Version.

This telemedicine guidance is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical diagnosis or treatment. Always seek in-person care when emergency symptoms or severe conditions occur.