How to prepare for a video visit about Hair Loss (Androgenic Alopecia)

Audience: pediatric

Hair loss, especially androgenic alopecia, can affect children and teens, causing thinning hair or bald spots. Preparing for a video visit with a healthcare provider can help make the appointment helpful and smooth. During the visit, the provider will ask questions about hair loss, family history, and health. They may also want to see your scalp clearly, so good lighting and camera setup are important. This guide explains how to get ready, what to expect, and when to seek urgent care. Remember, telemedicine can help with education and initial advice but is not a replacement for in-person exams or treatments when needed.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Sudden or rapid hair loss over days to weeks — seek urgent in-person evaluation.
• Scalp pain, redness, swelling, or pus indicating possible infection — get immediate medical care.
• Hair loss with fever, fatigue, or feeling very unwell — go to emergency or urgent care.

What telemedicine can do

• Initial evaluation and education about hair loss.
• Review of symptoms and family history.
• Visual inspection of scalp via video for general assessment.
• Advice on hair care and when to seek further care.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Performing physical scalp exams requiring touch or biopsy.
• Diagnosing infections needing laboratory tests.
• Prescribing certain medications without in-person assessment.
• Emergency situations requiring immediate hands-on care.

What is Androgenic Alopecia in Children?

Androgenic alopecia is a common cause of hair thinning or loss that can start in childhood or adolescence. It is often related to genetics and hormones. Hair may become thinner on the top or front of the scalp. Understanding this helps you talk clearly with your healthcare provider during the video visit.

How to Prepare for Your Video Visit

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What to Expect During the Video Visit

Your healthcare provider will ask about:

They may ask you to show your scalp using the camera to see the hair and skin closely. Based on this, they will discuss possible causes and next steps.

When to Seek In-Person Care

If you notice any of these signs, seek in-person medical care promptly:

These may indicate infections or other serious conditions that need immediate attention.

How Telemedicine Can Help

Telemedicine can provide:

However, it cannot replace physical exams or procedures like scalp biopsies that may be needed for diagnosis.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Choose a quiet, well-lit room with stable internet.
• Have a mirror and comb to show your scalp.
• Prepare a list of hair changes and family history.
• Write down any questions or concerns.
• Ensure a trusted adult is nearby if needed.

After your tele-visit

• Follow any advice given about hair care or lifestyle changes.
• Schedule in-person visits if recommended for further tests.
• Monitor hair changes and new symptoms.
• Contact your healthcare provider if red flag symptoms develop.
• Keep notes of any treatments started and their effects.

FAQs

What causes androgenic alopecia in children?

It is often caused by genetic factors and hormones that affect hair growth patterns. It can start in childhood or adolescence and usually leads to gradual thinning of hair.

Can telemedicine diagnose my child's hair loss?

Telemedicine can help assess symptoms and provide education, but some diagnoses require in-person exams or tests. Your provider will guide you if further evaluation is needed.

How can I prepare my child for a video visit about hair loss?

Find a quiet, well-lit space, have tools like a mirror ready, and prepare to show the scalp clearly on camera. Write down any questions and have a trusted adult help if needed.

When should I seek emergency care for hair loss?

If your child has sudden hair loss, scalp pain, redness, swelling, pus, fever, or feels very unwell, seek urgent in-person medical care immediately.

What treatments might be discussed during the video visit?

The provider may talk about hair care tips, possible medications, or when to see a specialist. Actual prescriptions or procedures often require an in-person visit.

Sources

1. Hair Loss in Children — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. Androgenic Alopecia — Mayo Clinic.
3. Hair Loss: Overview — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
4. Pediatric Hair Loss — American Academy of Pediatrics.

This educational content is intended to support telemedicine visits and is not a substitute for in-person medical care. If you have urgent symptoms or concerns, please seek direct medical attention promptly.