How to prepare for a video visit about Overactive Bladder (OAB) in children

Audience: pediatric

Overactive Bladder (OAB) in children can cause sudden urges to urinate, frequent bathroom trips, and sometimes accidents. Preparing for a video visit with a healthcare provider can help you get the most out of the appointment. During the visit, the provider will ask about symptoms, medical history, and any changes in bathroom habits. They may also discuss lifestyle factors and suggest ways to manage symptoms. This guide explains how to prepare for your video visit, what to expect, and when to seek urgent care. Remember, telemedicine is a helpful way to discuss symptoms and get advice but is not a substitute for in-person exams when needed.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Severe abdominal or pelvic pain with inability to urinate — seek emergency care immediately.
• Blood in the urine — contact healthcare provider promptly or go to urgent care.
• Fever combined with urinary symptoms — requires urgent medical evaluation.

What telemedicine can do

• Initial symptom discussion and history taking.
• Review of symptom diary and bathroom habits.
• Education on lifestyle changes and bladder training.
• Discussion of medication options and side effects.
• Determining need for further testing or in-person evaluation.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Physical examination of the abdomen or genital area.
• Obtaining urine samples or lab tests.
• Emergency care for severe symptoms.
• Procedures or imaging studies.
• Diagnosis of complex underlying conditions without in-person assessment.

What is Overactive Bladder (OAB) in children?

OAB is a condition where the bladder muscles contract too often or suddenly, causing a strong need to urinate. Children with OAB may need to go to the bathroom frequently during the day or night and might have accidents. It is not caused by infections but can affect daily activities and comfort.

How to prepare for the video visit

\1

What to expect during the video visit

The healthcare provider will ask about your child's symptoms, medical history, and daily habits. They may observe your child during the call and guide you through questions about bathroom use and fluid intake. The provider may suggest lifestyle changes, bladder training, or discuss the need for further tests or in-person visits.

When to seek urgent in-person care

If your child has any of these signs, get medical help right away:

These signs may indicate a more serious problem that needs immediate attention.

Tips for managing OAB symptoms at home

\1

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Choose a private, quiet space with good internet connection for the video visit.
• Prepare a list of your child's symptoms, including frequency and timing.
• Gather information about your child's medical history and current medications.
• Write down any questions or concerns you want to discuss.
• Have a calendar or diary of bathroom habits ready to share.
• Ensure your child is comfortable and aware of the upcoming visit.

After your tele-visit

• Follow any lifestyle or bladder training advice given by the provider.
• Schedule any recommended follow-up appointments or tests.
• Monitor your child's symptoms and note any changes.
• Contact your healthcare provider if symptoms worsen or new symptoms develop.
• Keep a symptom diary to track progress and share at future visits.

FAQs

What causes Overactive Bladder in children?

OAB can be caused by immature bladder muscles, nerve signals that trigger sudden urges, or sometimes stress. It is usually not caused by infection or serious illness.

Can OAB be cured?

Many children improve over time with lifestyle changes and bladder training. Some may need medicines. Most children outgrow OAB as they get older.

Is it safe to have a video visit for OAB?

Yes, video visits are a safe way to discuss symptoms and get advice. However, if your child has severe symptoms or signs of infection, an in-person visit may be needed.

What should I do if my child has accidents at night?

Nighttime accidents are common with OAB. Limiting fluids before bedtime and encouraging bathroom use before sleep can help. Talk to your provider for more tips.

When should I seek emergency care?

Seek emergency care if your child has severe pain, cannot urinate, has blood in the urine, or has a fever with urinary symptoms.

Sources

1. Overactive Bladder in Children — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. Overactive Bladder — Mayo Clinic.
3. Pediatric Overactive Bladder: Clinical Practice Guidelines — American Academy of Pediatrics.
4. Urinary Incontinence in Children — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

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