How to prepare for a video visit about Hyperhidrosis

Audience: pediatric

Hyperhidrosis is a condition where the body sweats more than usual, often without clear reason. It can affect children and make daily activities uncomfortable or embarrassing. A video visit with a healthcare provider can help you learn more about hyperhidrosis and discuss ways to manage it. During the visit, the provider may ask about when sweating happens, how much sweat there is, and if it affects daily life. Preparing for the visit can help make the most of your time and get helpful advice. This guide explains how to get ready for a video visit about hyperhidrosis, what to expect, and what to do after the appointment. Remember, telemedicine is a helpful way to talk to a doctor but does not replace in-person care when needed.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Sudden onset of fever with sweating — seek immediate medical care.
• Painful, red, or swollen skin where sweating occurs — contact a healthcare provider promptly.
• Sweating accompanied by weight loss, fatigue, or other new symptoms — arrange urgent evaluation.

What telemedicine can do

• Initial assessment of sweating symptoms.
• Discussion of medical history and symptom patterns.
• Providing education about hyperhidrosis and management options.
• Guidance on over-the-counter treatments and lifestyle changes.
• Determining if in-person evaluation or specialist referral is needed.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Performing physical exams that require touch or detailed skin assessment.
• Administering treatments or procedures in person.
• Diagnosing complex or rare causes of sweating without further tests.
• Managing emergency symptoms that require immediate physical care.

What is Hyperhidrosis?

Hyperhidrosis means sweating more than your body needs to cool down. It can happen in places like the hands, feet, underarms, or face. For children, it might cause wet clothes, slippery hands, or discomfort during school or play. Knowing about hyperhidrosis helps you talk with your healthcare provider about your symptoms.

How to Prepare for Your Video Visit

Before your video visit, find a quiet, well-lit place where you can talk without interruptions. Have a list of your symptoms ready, including when sweating happens and how it affects daily activities. You might also want to note any family history of sweating problems or other health issues. Make sure your device is charged and connected to the internet. Have a parent or guardian nearby to help if needed.

What to Expect During the Video Visit

The healthcare provider will ask questions about your sweating, such as when it started, how often it happens, and if anything makes it better or worse. They may ask to see the areas where sweating occurs through the camera. The provider will discuss possible causes and ways to manage symptoms. They may suggest treatments like special antiperspirants, lifestyle changes, or further tests if needed.

After Your Video Visit: Next Steps

After the appointment, follow any advice or treatment plans given by your provider. This might include using certain products or keeping a diary of sweating episodes. If your symptoms change or get worse, or if you notice new problems, contact your healthcare provider. Sometimes, an in-person visit or specialist referral may be needed for further care.

When to Seek Immediate Medical Care

While hyperhidrosis is usually not dangerous, some signs need prompt attention. If you experience fever, severe pain, sudden swelling, or skin changes like redness and warmth, seek emergency care. These could be signs of infection or other serious conditions.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Find a quiet, well-lit space for the video visit.
• Ensure your device is charged and has a stable internet connection.
• Prepare a list of symptoms including when sweating occurs and how it affects daily life.
• Note any family history of hyperhidrosis or related conditions.
• Have a parent or guardian available to assist during the visit.
• Write down any questions you want to ask the healthcare provider.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the treatment or management plan discussed during the visit.
• Use recommended products as directed, such as antiperspirants.
• Keep a diary of sweating episodes to share in future visits.
• Monitor for any new or worsening symptoms.
• Contact your healthcare provider if symptoms change or you have concerns.
• Schedule an in-person visit if advised by your provider.

FAQs

What causes hyperhidrosis in children?

Hyperhidrosis can be caused by overactive sweat glands without an obvious reason, known as primary hyperhidrosis. Sometimes, it is due to other health issues like infections or medications, called secondary hyperhidrosis. A healthcare provider can help determine the cause.

Can hyperhidrosis be cured?

There is no one-size-fits-all cure, but many treatments can help control sweating. These include special antiperspirants, lifestyle changes, and in some cases, medical procedures. Managing symptoms can improve comfort and daily life.

Is hyperhidrosis dangerous?

Hyperhidrosis itself is usually not dangerous, but it can affect quality of life and cause skin problems if sweating is excessive. If sweating is sudden or comes with other symptoms like fever or pain, seek medical care.

How can I help my child during the video visit?

Be ready to share detailed information about your child's sweating, including when it happens and how it affects activities. Help your child stay calm and comfortable during the visit. Have any notes or questions ready to discuss with the provider.

When should we see a specialist?

If initial treatments do not help or if the sweating is severe and affects daily life, your healthcare provider may refer you to a specialist such as a dermatologist for further evaluation and treatment.

Sources

1. Hyperhidrosis — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. Excessive Sweating (Hyperhidrosis) — Mayo Clinic.
3. Hyperhidrosis — National Library of Medicine.
4. Excessive Sweating (Hyperhidrosis) in Children — American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP).

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