What happens after a telemedicine visit for Kidney Stone (Suspected) - Triage

Audience: adult

If you have a suspected kidney stone and have completed a telemedicine visit, your healthcare provider has likely evaluated your symptoms and advised on the next steps. After the visit, you may be asked to monitor your symptoms closely, manage pain with recommended medications, and stay hydrated. Your provider might suggest imaging tests like an ultrasound or CT scan to confirm the diagnosis. Follow-up care could involve reviewing test results, discussing treatment options, or referral to a specialist if needed. It's important to watch for warning signs such as severe pain, fever, or difficulty urinating, which require urgent medical attention. Telemedicine helps triage your condition and guide you safely, but some situations need in-person evaluation. Always follow your provider's instructions and seek emergency care if symptoms worsen.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Severe pain not relieved by medication — seek emergency care immediately.
• Fever or chills accompanying pain — possible infection needing urgent treatment.
• Difficulty or inability to urinate — requires prompt medical evaluation.

What telemedicine can do

• Initial symptom assessment and triage.
• Providing advice on pain management and hydration.
• Ordering imaging tests and lab work.
• Discussing test results and treatment options.
• Referring to specialists if needed.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Performing physical examinations requiring hands-on assessment.
• Conducting imaging tests or laboratory procedures.
• Managing severe complications needing emergency intervention.
• Performing surgical or procedural treatments.

What to expect immediately after your telemedicine visit

Your healthcare provider has assessed your symptoms and discussed your concerns. They may have recommended pain relief strategies and hydration. You might be advised to get imaging tests to confirm if you have a kidney stone and to check its size and location.

Common follow-up steps

Typically, you will need to schedule imaging tests such as an ultrasound or CT scan. After test results are available, you may have another telemedicine or in-person visit to discuss treatment options. Treatment could range from managing pain at home to procedures if the stone is large or blocking urine flow.

Managing symptoms at home

You can often manage mild kidney stone symptoms with over-the-counter pain relievers, drinking plenty of fluids, and resting. Avoid medications not recommended by your provider. Keep track of your symptoms and any changes to report during follow-up.

When to seek urgent care

If you experience severe pain that does not improve with medication, fever, chills, nausea, vomiting, inability to urinate, or blood in your urine, seek emergency medical care immediately. These signs may indicate complications requiring prompt treatment.

How telemedicine supports your care

Telemedicine allows your provider to evaluate your symptoms quickly and advise on next steps without delay. It helps determine if you need urgent care or can safely manage at home. However, some situations require in-person exams and tests.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Have a list of your current symptoms and when they started.
• Prepare a list of any medications you are taking.
• Note any allergies or previous kidney stone history.
• Find a quiet, private space with good internet connection for your visit.
• Have a list of questions or concerns ready to discuss with your provider.
• Be ready to provide your medical history and any recent test results if available.

After your tele-visit

• Schedule recommended imaging tests such as ultrasound or CT scan.
• Follow instructions for pain management and hydration.
• Monitor your symptoms and note any changes or worsening.
• Attend follow-up telemedicine or in-person visits as advised.
• Seek emergency care if you develop red flag symptoms.
• Keep a record of all medical advice and test results for reference.

FAQs

What tests might I need after my telemedicine visit?

Your provider may recommend imaging tests like an ultrasound or CT scan to confirm the presence, size, and location of a kidney stone. These tests help guide treatment decisions.

Can I manage kidney stone pain at home?

Often, mild to moderate pain can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers, drinking plenty of fluids, and rest. Always follow your provider's advice on medications and when to seek further care.

When should I go to the emergency room?

Seek emergency care if you have severe pain not relieved by medication, fever or chills, difficulty urinating, or vomiting that prevents you from keeping fluids down. These may be signs of complications.

Will I need surgery for a kidney stone?

Many kidney stones pass on their own with conservative management. Surgery or procedures are typically considered if the stone is large, blocking urine flow, or causing complications. Your provider will discuss options based on your situation.

How does telemedicine help with kidney stone care?

Telemedicine allows quick evaluation of your symptoms, advice on symptom management, and guidance on next steps like testing or specialist referral, reducing delays in care.

Sources

1. Kidney Stones — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. Kidney Stones - Symptoms and Causes — Mayo Clinic.
3. Kidney Stones — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
4. Kidney Stones - Merck Manual Consumer Version — Merck & Co., Inc..

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 promptly.