How to Prepare for a Video Visit About Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) in Children

Audience: pediatric

Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) is a condition where extra fat builds up in the liver of children who drink little or no alcohol. It is becoming more common, especially in children who are overweight or have certain health conditions. A video visit with a healthcare provider can help families understand NAFLD, discuss symptoms, and plan care. Preparing well for the visit can make the conversation more helpful. This includes gathering health history, noting any symptoms, and having questions ready. During the visit, the provider may talk about healthy eating, physical activity, and tests that check liver health. While telemedicine can guide care and support, some situations need in-person visits. Knowing when to seek urgent help is important. This guide helps families prepare for a video visit about NAFLD in children, so they can get the most from their time with the healthcare provider.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice) — seek emergency care immediately.
• Severe or worsening abdominal pain — contact healthcare provider or emergency services.
• Swelling in the belly or legs, or sudden weight gain — get urgent medical evaluation.

What telemedicine can do

• Reviewing symptoms and medical history related to NAFLD.
• Discussing lifestyle changes such as diet and exercise.
• Providing education about NAFLD and its management.
• Ordering routine blood tests or imaging as appropriate.
• Guiding when in-person evaluation is needed.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Performing physical examinations that require hands-on assessment.
• Diagnosing acute liver failure or other emergencies.
• Administering treatments or procedures.
• Managing severe or rapidly worsening symptoms without referral to emergency care.

What is Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) in Children?

NAFLD happens when fat builds up in the liver of children who do not drink alcohol. It can affect how the liver works and may cause inflammation or damage over time. NAFLD is often linked to being overweight, having insulin resistance, or other health issues. Many children with NAFLD have no symptoms at first, so doctors use tests to check liver health.

Why a Video Visit Can Help

A video visit lets you talk with a healthcare provider from home or another safe place. The provider can review your child’s health history, discuss any symptoms, and explain what NAFLD means for your child. They can also guide you on healthy lifestyle changes and decide if further tests or in-person visits are needed. Video visits save travel time and make it easier to get expert advice.

Preparing for Your Video Visit

Before the visit, gather important information such as your child’s medical history, current medicines, and any recent symptoms like tummy pain or tiredness. Write down questions you want to ask. Make sure your device (phone, tablet, or computer) is charged and connected to the internet. Find a quiet, well-lit place for the visit. Have a family member or caregiver nearby if your child needs help.

What to Expect During the Visit

The healthcare provider will ask about your child’s health, diet, and activity. They may review past test results or suggest new ones like blood tests or an ultrasound. They will talk about ways to support liver health, including healthy eating and exercise. The provider will also explain when to come in for an in-person visit or emergency care if needed.

When to Seek Immediate In-Person Care

If your child has severe belly pain, yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice), swelling in the belly, or very tiredness that does not improve, seek urgent medical care. These signs may mean serious liver problems. Telemedicine cannot replace emergency care in these situations.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• List your child’s current medicines and supplements.
• Note any symptoms your child has experienced, including when they started.
• Gather recent medical records or test results if available.
• Prepare questions or concerns you want to discuss.
• Ensure your device is charged and internet connection is stable.
• Find a quiet, private space for the video visit.
• Have a family member or caregiver available to assist if needed.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the healthcare provider’s advice on diet, exercise, and medications.
• Schedule any recommended lab tests or imaging studies.
• Monitor your child’s symptoms and report any new or worsening signs.
• Plan for follow-up visits as advised, either by video or in-person.
• Seek immediate care if red flag symptoms develop.

FAQs

What causes NAFLD in children?

NAFLD in children is often linked to extra fat in the body, especially in those who are overweight or have insulin resistance. Genetics and other health conditions can also play a role.

Can NAFLD be cured?

There is no specific cure, but NAFLD can often be managed or improved with healthy eating, regular physical activity, and managing other health issues.

Will my child need tests during the video visit?

The healthcare provider may recommend blood tests or imaging like an ultrasound to check liver health. These tests usually require an in-person visit to a lab or clinic.

Is it safe to manage NAFLD through telemedicine?

Telemedicine is useful for education, follow-up, and planning care. However, some situations require in-person visits, especially if symptoms worsen or new problems arise.

How can I help my child stay healthy with NAFLD?

Encourage a balanced diet with less sugar and fat, regular physical activity, and maintaining a healthy weight. The healthcare provider can give personalized advice during the visit.

Sources

1. Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease in Children — American Academy of Pediatrics.
3. Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
4. Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) — Mayo Clinic.

This telemedicine education is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional in-person medical care. If your child has urgent or severe symptoms, seek immediate medical attention.