How to Prepare for a Video Visit About High Cholesterol (Hyperlipidemia) - Follow-up (Pediatric)

Audience: pediatric

Managing high cholesterol in children often requires regular check-ins with healthcare providers. A video visit can be a convenient way to follow up on your child's condition, review test results, discuss medications, and plan lifestyle changes. Preparing well for the video visit helps you get the most from the appointment. This guide explains how to prepare, what to expect during the visit, and what to do afterward. Remember, this information is educational and does not replace in-person care when needed. If your child has new or worsening symptoms, seek medical help promptly.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Chest pain or tightness in your child — seek emergency care immediately.
• Sudden difficulty breathing or severe shortness of breath — get urgent medical help.
• Fainting or sudden weakness or numbness — call emergency services right away.

What telemedicine can do

• Reviewing cholesterol test results and trends.
• Discussing diet, exercise, and lifestyle changes.
• Adjusting or reviewing medications for cholesterol management.
• Answering questions about symptoms and side effects.
• Providing education on managing high cholesterol in children.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Performing physical exams that require hands-on assessment.
• Diagnosing new or severe symptoms that need immediate evaluation.
• Administering emergency treatments.
• Conducting blood tests or other lab work during the visit.
• Evaluating chest pain or other urgent conditions requiring in-person care.

What is High Cholesterol (Hyperlipidemia) in Children?

High cholesterol means there are too many fats, called lipids, in the blood. In children, this can be due to family history, diet, or other health issues. High cholesterol can increase the risk of heart problems later in life. Managing it early with healthy habits and sometimes medicine can help keep your child healthy.

Preparing for Your Child’s Video Visit

Before the video visit, gather any recent lab test results, notes about your child's diet and physical activity, and a list of medicines or supplements your child takes. Write down any questions or concerns you have. Make sure your device (phone, tablet, or computer) is charged and connected to the internet. Find a quiet, well-lit space for the visit.

What to Expect During the Video Visit

The healthcare provider will review your child's health history and test results. They may ask about your child's diet, exercise, and any side effects from medicines. You can discuss goals for cholesterol management and next steps. The provider might suggest lifestyle changes or adjust medications. Be ready to ask questions and share any concerns.

After the Video Visit: Next Steps

Follow the provider’s advice about medicines, diet, and activity. Schedule any recommended lab tests or follow-up visits. Keep track of your child's progress and report any new symptoms. Healthy habits like eating fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, and being active daily, are important. Stay in touch with your healthcare team if you have questions.

When to Seek In-Person Care

If your child has chest pain, severe shortness of breath, fainting, or sudden weakness, seek emergency care immediately. Also, if you notice new or worsening symptoms like unexplained fatigue, yellowing of the skin or eyes, or allergic reactions to medicines, contact a healthcare provider promptly.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Collect recent cholesterol and blood test results.
• List all medications and supplements your child is taking.
• Note any new symptoms or side effects.
• Prepare questions or concerns to discuss.
• Ensure your device is charged and has a good internet connection.
• Choose a quiet, well-lit place for the visit.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the healthcare provider’s recommendations for medicines and lifestyle.
• Schedule any follow-up lab tests or visits as advised.
• Monitor your child’s symptoms and overall health.
• Maintain a healthy diet and regular physical activity.
• Contact your healthcare provider if new symptoms develop or if you have concerns.

FAQs

What should I do if my child forgets to take their cholesterol medicine?

If your child misses a dose, give it as soon as you remember unless it is almost time for the next dose. Do not double the dose. If you are unsure, contact your healthcare provider for advice.

Can my child eat all types of fats?

Not all fats are the same. Encourage healthy fats found in foods like fish, nuts, and olive oil. Limit saturated fats found in fried foods, butter, and fatty meats, and avoid trans fats often found in processed snacks.

How often should my child have cholesterol checked?

The healthcare provider will recommend how often to check cholesterol based on your child’s condition. Typically, follow-up tests happen every few months to a year to monitor progress.

Is high cholesterol common in children?

High cholesterol can occur in children, especially if there is a family history or unhealthy lifestyle habits. Early detection helps prevent problems later in life.

Can video visits replace all in-person visits for my child’s cholesterol?

Video visits are useful for follow-ups and education but cannot replace all in-person care. Physical exams, blood tests, or urgent evaluations need in-person visits.

Sources

1. High Cholesterol in Children — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. Hyperlipidemia in Children and Adolescents — American Academy of Pediatrics.
3. Cholesterol Management in Children — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
4. High Cholesterol - Symptoms and Causes — Mayo Clinic.

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.