What Happens After a Telemedicine Visit for Hidradenitis Suppurativa (Mild) in Children

Audience: pediatric

Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS) is a skin condition that causes small, painful lumps under the skin, often in areas like the armpits or groin. When mild, it can often be managed with simple care and medicine. After a telemedicine visit for mild HS, you will usually get advice on how to keep the skin clean and dry, tips on avoiding irritation, and instructions on using prescribed creams or medications. Your healthcare provider may suggest lifestyle changes such as wearing loose clothes and maintaining a healthy weight. Follow-up visits might be scheduled to check how the skin is healing and to adjust treatment if needed. It's important to watch for any signs that the condition is getting worse or if new symptoms appear, and to seek in-person care if that happens. Telemedicine can help you manage mild HS safely and comfortably from home, but it is not a replacement for in-person medical care when symptoms change or worsen.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Sudden increase in pain, redness, or swelling around the lumps — seek urgent medical care.
• Development of fever or chills alongside skin symptoms — contact healthcare provider immediately.
• Formation of large abscesses or open sores that do not improve — arrange for in-person evaluation.

What telemedicine can do

• Initial assessment of mild symptoms and skin appearance via video.
• Providing guidance on skin care and lifestyle changes.
• Prescribing topical treatments or oral medications for mild cases.
• Scheduling follow-up visits to monitor progress and adjust treatment.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Performing physical procedures like drainage or surgery.
• Evaluating severe or rapidly worsening infections.
• Diagnosing complications that require laboratory tests or imaging.
• Managing severe pain or systemic symptoms requiring emergency care.

Understanding Mild Hidradenitis Suppurativa

Mild Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS) usually means there are a few small, painful lumps or bumps under the skin. These often appear in areas where skin rubs together, like the armpits, groin, or behind the knees. The lumps may come and go and sometimes drain fluid. HS is a long-term condition that can be managed with care and medicine, especially when caught early.

What to Expect After Your Telemedicine Visit

After your telemedicine visit, your healthcare provider will likely give you instructions on how to care for your skin. This may include:

They may also discuss lifestyle changes that can help, such as maintaining a healthy weight and avoiding smoking. You might be asked to schedule follow-up visits to monitor your progress.

When to Seek In-Person Care

If your symptoms worsen or you notice any of the following, you should seek in-person medical care promptly:

In-person visits allow for physical exams and treatments that cannot be done via telemedicine.

Managing Symptoms at Home

You can help manage mild HS by:

These steps often ease symptoms and support healing.

Follow-Up and Monitoring

Your healthcare provider may recommend regular follow-up appointments, either by telemedicine or in person, to:

Keeping track of your symptoms and any changes helps your provider give the best care.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Find a quiet, well-lit place for the telemedicine visit.
• Have a list of current symptoms and their duration ready.
• Prepare to show the affected skin areas clearly on camera.
• List any medications or treatments currently used.
• Have questions or concerns written down to discuss with your provider.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the skin care and medication instructions given by your provider.
• Monitor your symptoms daily and note any changes.
• Keep follow-up appointments as scheduled.
• Contact your healthcare provider if symptoms worsen or new symptoms appear.
• Maintain healthy lifestyle habits as advised.

FAQs

Can I treat mild Hidradenitis Suppurativa at home?

Mild HS can often be managed at home with proper skin care, prescribed medications, and lifestyle changes. However, it is important to follow your healthcare provider's advice and report any worsening symptoms.

How often will I need follow-up visits?

Follow-up visits vary but often occur every few weeks to months depending on your symptoms and response to treatment. Your provider will guide you on the best schedule.

What should I do if my lumps become very painful or start draining pus?

If you notice increased pain, swelling, or pus, contact your healthcare provider promptly. You may need an in-person visit for further evaluation and treatment.

Is Hidradenitis Suppurativa contagious?

No, HS is not contagious. It is a chronic skin condition related to inflammation of hair follicles and is not spread from person to person.

Can telemedicine replace all in-person visits for HS?

Telemedicine is helpful for many aspects of managing mild HS, but some situations require in-person care, especially if symptoms worsen or complications develop.

Sources

1. Hidradenitis Suppurativa — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. Hidradenitis Suppurativa: Overview — Mayo Clinic.
3. Hidradenitis Suppurativa — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
4. Hidradenitis Suppurativa: Clinical Features and Management — National Library of Medicine.

This information is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical care. Telemedicine can help manage mild conditions but is not a substitute for in-person evaluation when symptoms worsen or new concerns arise. Always follow your healthcare provider's advice and seek emergency care if you experience severe symptoms.