How to prepare for a video visit about Panic Attacks - Triage

Audience: pediatric

Panic attacks are sudden episodes of intense fear or discomfort that can include symptoms like a racing heart, shortness of breath, dizziness, or feeling detached from reality. Children and teens may experience panic attacks for various reasons, and understanding these symptoms is important. A video visit with a healthcare provider can help assess these symptoms and guide next steps. During the visit, the provider will ask about the child's symptoms, their frequency, and any triggers. This guide helps families prepare for such a visit, so they can share important information and get the best support. Remember, telemedicine is a helpful tool for initial assessment and advice but is not a replacement for emergency or in-person care when needed.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Chest pain or pressure lasting more than a few minutes — seek emergency care immediately.
• Severe difficulty breathing or choking sensation — call emergency services right away.
• Loss of consciousness or fainting — get urgent medical attention immediately.

What telemedicine can do

• Initial assessment of panic attack symptoms in children and teens.
• Providing education about panic attacks and coping strategies.
• Guidance on when to seek emergency or in-person care.
• Follow-up discussions on symptom monitoring and management plans.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Diagnosing or treating life-threatening emergencies.
• Performing physical examinations that require hands-on assessment.
• Prescribing controlled substances without prior in-person evaluation.
• Managing complex psychiatric conditions requiring immediate intervention.

What is a Panic Attack?

A panic attack is a sudden feeling of intense fear or discomfort that reaches a peak within minutes. Common symptoms include:

Panic attacks can be very frightening but are not usually dangerous. They often happen without warning and may be triggered by stress or certain situations.

How Telemedicine Can Help

During a video visit, a healthcare provider can:

Telemedicine allows for quick access to care from home, which can be comforting for children and families.

Preparing for Your Video Visit

To get the most from your video visit:

When to Seek Emergency Care

Some symptoms require immediate medical attention. Call emergency services or go to the nearest emergency room if your child has:

These signs are not typical of panic attacks and need urgent care.

After Your Video Visit

Follow the healthcare provider’s advice carefully. This may include:

Remember, managing panic attacks often involves ongoing support and care.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Choose a quiet, private place with good lighting and internet connection for the video visit.
• Test your device’s camera, microphone, and speakers before the appointment.
• Prepare a list of your child's symptoms including when they started and how often they occur.
• Note any recent stressful events or changes in your child's routine.
• Have a list of all medications and supplements your child is currently taking.
• Write down any questions or concerns you want to discuss during the visit.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the healthcare provider’s recommendations and advice.
• Keep a symptom diary to track frequency and triggers of panic attacks.
• Practice any suggested coping or relaxation techniques.
• Schedule follow-up appointments if advised.
• Seek emergency care if any red-flag symptoms develop or worsen.

FAQs

What causes panic attacks in children?

Panic attacks can be triggered by stress, anxiety, certain situations, or sometimes happen without a clear cause. They are a response of the body's fight-or-flight system being activated.

Can panic attacks be dangerous?

Panic attacks themselves are not usually dangerous but can be very frightening. However, symptoms like chest pain or severe breathing problems need immediate medical attention.

How can I help my child during a panic attack?

Stay calm and reassure your child. Encourage slow, deep breaths and help them focus on something grounding, like naming objects in the room. Stay with them until the attack passes.

Will my child need medication?

Not always. Treatment depends on the frequency and severity of attacks. Providers may suggest therapy, coping strategies, or medication in some cases.

Can telemedicine replace in-person visits for panic attacks?

Telemedicine is useful for initial assessment and ongoing support but cannot replace in-person care when emergencies or detailed physical exams are needed.

Sources

1. Panic Attacks — MedlinePlus | U.S. National Library of Medicine / National Institutes of Health.
2. Panic Disorder — American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry (AACAP).
3. Anxiety and Panic Attacks — Mayo Clinic.
4. Mental Health: Panic Disorder — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

This telemedicine guidance is for educational and triage purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional in-person medical care, diagnosis, or treatment. If your child experiences emergency symptoms, seek immediate medical attention.