What happens after a telemedicine visit for Panic Attacks - Triage

Audience: adult

After a telemedicine visit for panic attacks, you will usually receive guidance on managing your symptoms and may get recommendations for follow-up care. The healthcare provider will assess your symptoms and help decide if you need urgent in-person care or if your condition can be managed through counseling, lifestyle changes, or medication. You might be advised on techniques to reduce anxiety, such as breathing exercises or relaxation methods. If needed, your provider may refer you to a mental health specialist for therapy or further evaluation. It's important to watch for warning signs like chest pain, fainting, or severe breathing difficulties, which require immediate emergency care. Telemedicine can be a helpful first step to understand your symptoms and plan next steps safely and conveniently.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Chest pain or pressure that does not go away — seek emergency care immediately.
• Fainting or loss of consciousness — call emergency services right away.
• Severe difficulty breathing or choking sensation — go to the emergency room immediately.

What telemedicine can do

• Initial assessment of panic symptoms and anxiety levels.
• Providing education on panic attack management and coping strategies.
• Referrals to mental health specialists for therapy or medication evaluation.
• Follow-up visits to monitor symptom progress and treatment response.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Emergency situations such as chest pain or severe breathing difficulties.
• Physical examinations requiring hands-on assessment.
• Immediate administration of emergency medications or interventions.
• Complex psychiatric evaluations needing in-person testing or hospitalization.

What to Expect Right After Your Telemedicine Visit

After your telemedicine visit, your healthcare provider will summarize the discussion and may provide advice on managing panic symptoms. This can include breathing exercises, stress reduction techniques, or suggestions for lifestyle changes. They may also explain when to seek emergency care and how to monitor your symptoms at home.

Follow-Up Care and Referrals

Depending on your symptoms, your provider might recommend follow-up visits either through telemedicine or in-person. They may refer you to a mental health specialist such as a psychologist or psychiatrist for therapy or medication management. Regular follow-up helps ensure your symptoms improve and any treatment is adjusted as needed.

When to Seek Emergency Care

If you experience severe chest pain, fainting, difficulty breathing, or confusion, these could be signs of a medical emergency. In such cases, call emergency services or go to the nearest emergency room immediately. Panic attacks can feel intense, but these red flags require urgent evaluation.

Managing Panic Attacks at Home

You can try techniques like deep breathing, mindfulness, and grounding exercises to reduce panic symptoms. Avoid caffeine, alcohol, and stressful situations when possible. Keeping a symptom diary may help you and your provider understand triggers and patterns.

How Telemedicine Supports Your Care

Telemedicine allows you to discuss your symptoms safely from home. It can provide quick access to healthcare advice and help decide if you need in-person care. However, it is not a replacement for emergency services or comprehensive mental health treatment when needed.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Find a quiet, private space with good internet connection for your telemedicine visit.
• Have a list of your symptoms, including when they started and how often they occur.
• Prepare questions or concerns you want to discuss with your provider.
• Have a list of any medications or supplements you are currently taking.
• Ensure your device's camera and microphone are working properly before the visit.

After your tele-visit

• Follow any self-care advice or exercises recommended by your provider.
• Schedule and attend follow-up appointments as advised.
• Monitor your symptoms and note any changes or new concerns.
• Reach out to emergency services if you experience any red-flag symptoms.
• Consider seeking therapy or counseling if referred by your provider.

FAQs

Can telemedicine diagnose panic attacks?

Telemedicine providers can assess your symptoms and suggest if they are likely due to panic attacks, but a full diagnosis may require further evaluation, sometimes in person.

What should I do if I have a panic attack after my telemedicine visit?

Try to use calming techniques such as deep breathing or grounding exercises. If symptoms are severe or you have chest pain or difficulty breathing, seek emergency care immediately.

Will I need medication after a telemedicine visit for panic attacks?

Your provider may discuss medication options depending on your symptoms and history, but not everyone needs medication. Therapy and lifestyle changes are often recommended first.

How can I prepare for my telemedicine visit about panic attacks?

Prepare by noting your symptoms, any triggers, and questions you have. Make sure you have a quiet space and a working device for the visit.

Is telemedicine safe for managing panic attacks?

Telemedicine is a safe and convenient way to get initial advice and follow-up care, but it cannot replace emergency care or in-person assessments when needed.

Sources

1. Panic Attacks and Panic Disorder — MedlinePlus | U.S. National Library of Medicine / National Institutes of Health.
2. Panic Disorder — Mayo Clinic.
3. Anxiety and Panic Disorders — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
4. Panic Disorder Treatment — Merck Manuals: Consumer Version.

This telemedicine guidance is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for in-person medical care. If you experience emergency symptoms or worsening health, seek immediate medical attention.