What happens after a telemedicine visit for Hyperhidrosis

Audience: pediatric

After a telemedicine visit for hyperhidrosis, which is excessive sweating, you will usually receive advice on managing symptoms and possibly a treatment plan. The healthcare provider may suggest lifestyle changes, skin care tips, or medications that can help reduce sweating. Sometimes, they may recommend follow-up visits to check how well treatments are working. If needed, they might refer you to a specialist for further care. It's important to watch for any new or worsening symptoms and keep track of how treatments affect sweating. Telemedicine makes it easier to get advice without leaving home, but some situations may require an in-person visit. Always follow the healthcare provider's instructions and ask questions if anything is unclear.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Sudden increase in sweating that is severe or affects new areas — seek in-person medical care promptly.
• Signs of skin infection such as redness, warmth, swelling, pain, or pus — contact a healthcare provider immediately.
• Other symptoms like unexplained weight loss, fever, or fatigue alongside sweating — urgent evaluation is needed.

What telemedicine can do

• Initial evaluation of sweating symptoms and history.
• Providing education on skin care and lifestyle changes.
• Prescribing common medications for hyperhidrosis.
• Monitoring response to treatment through follow-up visits.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Performing physical exams or diagnostic tests requiring in-person visits.
• Treating severe infections or complications related to hyperhidrosis.
• Administering procedures such as Botox injections or surgery.

What to Expect Right After Your Telemedicine Visit

After your telemedicine visit, your healthcare provider may give you a plan that includes ways to manage sweating, such as using special antiperspirants or keeping your skin clean and dry. They might also suggest avoiding triggers like spicy foods or stress. Sometimes, they will prescribe medications or recommend other treatments. You may be asked to schedule a follow-up visit to see how you are doing.

How to Care for Your Skin and Manage Symptoms

Keeping your skin clean and dry can help reduce sweating and prevent skin irritation. Wearing loose, breathable clothing and using gentle soaps can also help. Your provider might advise you to apply antiperspirants at night or use other treatments safely. Avoid scratching or rubbing sweaty areas to prevent skin damage.

When to Seek In-Person Care

If your sweating suddenly gets worse, if you notice signs of infection like redness, swelling, or pain, or if you have other symptoms like fever or weight loss, you should see a healthcare provider in person. Some treatments require physical exams or tests that cannot be done through telemedicine.

Preparing for Your Next Telemedicine Visit

Before your next visit, keep a diary of your sweating episodes, noting when and where they happen and what seems to trigger them. Write down any questions or concerns you have. Make sure you have a quiet, private space with good internet connection for the visit.

Common Treatments and What to Expect

Treatments may include topical antiperspirants, oral medications, or other therapies. Some treatments take time to work, so patience is important. Your healthcare provider will explain how to use treatments safely and what side effects to watch for.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Find a quiet, well-lit place with good internet connection for the visit.
• Have a list of your symptoms, including when and where sweating occurs.
• Write down any questions or concerns you want to discuss.
• Prepare a list of current medications and any allergies.
• Have a family member or caregiver available if you need help during the visit.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the treatment plan and advice given by your healthcare provider.
• Keep a diary of sweating episodes and any side effects from treatments.
• Schedule follow-up telemedicine visits as recommended.
• Contact your healthcare provider if symptoms worsen or new symptoms develop.
• Maintain good skin hygiene and avoid known triggers.

FAQs

What is hyperhidrosis?

Hyperhidrosis is a condition where a person sweats more than usual, even when not hot or exercising. It can affect different parts of the body and may cause discomfort or embarrassment.

Can telemedicine help treat hyperhidrosis in children?

Yes, telemedicine can help by allowing healthcare providers to assess symptoms, provide advice, and prescribe treatments. However, some treatments may require in-person visits.

What should I do if my child's sweating gets worse suddenly?

If sweating increases suddenly or is accompanied by other symptoms like fever or skin changes, seek in-person medical care promptly.

Are there lifestyle changes that can help with hyperhidrosis?

Yes, wearing loose clothing, avoiding spicy foods, managing stress, and keeping skin clean and dry can help reduce sweating.

Will my child need special tests?

Sometimes tests are needed to find the cause of excessive sweating. Your healthcare provider will tell you if any tests are necessary and if they require an in-person visit.

Sources

1. Hyperhidrosis — MedlinePlus | U.S. National Library of Medicine / National Institutes of Health.
2. Excessive Sweating (Hyperhidrosis) — Mayo Clinic.
3. Hyperhidrosis — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
4. Hyperhidrosis: Diagnosis and Management — National Library of Medicine.

This telemedicine guidance is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for in-person medical care. If you have concerns about your health or symptoms worsen, seek care from a healthcare professional in person.