How to Prepare for a Video Visit About Fibromyalgia (Education)

Audience: pediatric

Fibromyalgia is a condition that can cause widespread pain, tiredness, and other symptoms in children and teens. Preparing for a video visit with a healthcare provider can help you get the most out of your appointment. This guide explains what to expect during a telemedicine visit about fibromyalgia and how to get ready. You will learn what information to share, how to describe your symptoms clearly, and what questions to ask. Telemedicine can help with education, symptom discussion, and follow-up care, but it cannot replace in-person exams or tests that may be needed. Knowing when to seek urgent care is important. This guide also lists warning signs that need quick medical attention. Preparing well and understanding telemedicine’s role can help you and your family manage fibromyalgia better.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Sudden weakness or numbness in any part of the body — seek emergency care immediately.
• High fever (above 38.5°C or 101.3°F) that does not improve with medicine — contact your healthcare provider or emergency services.
• Severe difficulty breathing or chest pain — call emergency services right away.

What telemedicine can do

• Discussing symptoms and concerns related to fibromyalgia.
• Providing education about fibromyalgia and symptom management.
• Reviewing medication lists and advising on general care strategies.
• Planning follow-up care and monitoring symptom changes.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Performing a physical examination to diagnose fibromyalgia.
• Ordering or conducting diagnostic tests such as blood work or imaging.
• Managing emergencies or severe new symptoms.
• Prescribing certain medications that require in-person evaluation.

What is Fibromyalgia?

Fibromyalgia is a condition that causes widespread muscle pain, tiredness, and sometimes problems with sleep or mood. It can affect children and teens, making daily activities harder. Doctors do not yet know exactly what causes fibromyalgia, but it often involves how the brain and nerves process pain signals. Symptoms may come and go and can change over time.

What to Expect During Your Video Visit

During your video visit, the healthcare provider will ask about your symptoms, such as where you feel pain, how strong it is, and how it affects your daily life. They may ask about your sleep, energy levels, and mood. The provider cannot do a physical exam through the screen, but they may guide you or a caregiver to show certain movements or areas of pain. This visit is a chance to share your story and ask questions.

How to Prepare for Your Telemedicine Appointment

Before your video visit, write down your symptoms, including when they started and what makes them better or worse. Gather a list of any medicines or supplements you take. Find a quiet, well-lit place for the visit where you won’t be interrupted. Test your device’s camera and microphone ahead of time. Have a caregiver nearby to help if needed. Prepare questions you want to ask your provider.

When to Seek In-Person Care

Telemedicine is helpful for discussing symptoms and planning care, but some situations need a doctor’s physical exam or tests. If you have new or worsening symptoms like severe pain, sudden weakness, trouble breathing, high fever, or confusion, get in-person care immediately. Your provider may also recommend an in-person visit for diagnosis or treatments that cannot be done online.

Tips for Talking About Fibromyalgia Symptoms

Try to describe your pain clearly—where it hurts, how it feels (sharp, dull, burning), and how long it lasts. Share how symptoms affect your school, sleep, and activities. Be honest about your mood and energy. This helps your provider understand your experience and plan support.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Write down your symptoms, including when they started and how they affect your daily life.
• List all medications and supplements you are currently taking.
• Prepare a quiet, well-lit space with a reliable internet connection for your video visit.
• Test your device’s camera and microphone before the appointment.
• Have a caregiver nearby to assist if needed.
• Prepare questions or concerns you want to discuss with your healthcare provider.

After your tele-visit

• Follow any advice or treatment plans given by your healthcare provider.
• Schedule any recommended in-person visits or tests if advised.
• Keep a symptom diary to track changes and share updates during follow-up visits.
• Contact your healthcare provider if new or worsening symptoms develop.
• Maintain communication with your care team for ongoing support and education.

FAQs

What causes fibromyalgia in children?

The exact cause of fibromyalgia is not known. It may involve how the brain and nerves process pain signals. Factors like genetics, infections, or stress may play a role.

Can fibromyalgia be cured?

There is no cure for fibromyalgia yet, but symptoms can often be managed with a combination of medicine, lifestyle changes, and support.

Is fibromyalgia dangerous?

Fibromyalgia is not life-threatening, but it can affect quality of life by causing pain and tiredness. It’s important to get care to manage symptoms.

How can I help my child during a fibromyalgia flare-up?

Encourage rest, gentle activity as tolerated, and good sleep habits. Support emotional well-being and follow your healthcare provider’s advice.

Will I need to see the doctor in person?

Sometimes yes. Your healthcare provider may recommend in-person visits for physical exams, tests, or treatments that cannot be done over video.

Sources

1. Fibromyalgia — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine / NIH.
2. Fibromyalgia: Overview — Mayo Clinic.
3. Fibromyalgia — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
4. Fibromyalgia in Children and Adolescents — American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP).

This telemedicine guidance is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for in-person medical care. If you have urgent symptoms or concerns, seek immediate medical attention.