What Happens After a Telemedicine Visit for Panic Attacks - Triage

Audience: pediatric

After a telemedicine visit for panic attacks in children or teens, families often wonder what comes next. Typically, the healthcare provider will review the symptoms discussed during the visit and may suggest ways to manage panic attacks at home. This can include learning coping skills, making lifestyle changes, or starting therapy. Sometimes, the provider may recommend follow-up visits to check progress or suggest seeing a specialist if needed. It is important to watch for warning signs that require urgent care, such as chest pain or difficulty breathing. Telemedicine is a helpful first step for evaluating panic attacks but cannot replace in-person emergency care or detailed physical exams. Families should feel comfortable asking questions and sharing concerns during and after the visit to ensure the child gets the right support.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Chest pain or pressure that does not go away — seek emergency care immediately.
• Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath that worsens — call emergency services.
• Loss of consciousness, fainting, or confusion — go to the nearest emergency room right away.

What telemedicine can do

• Initial evaluation of panic attack symptoms.
• Providing education on coping strategies and lifestyle changes.
• Scheduling follow-up appointments and monitoring progress.
• Referring to mental health specialists when needed.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Emergency situations requiring physical examination or immediate intervention.
• Diagnosing conditions that mimic panic attacks without in-person tests.
• Prescribing controlled medications without proper evaluation.

What to Expect Right After Your Telemedicine Visit

After your telemedicine appointment, the healthcare provider will usually summarize the discussion and may provide advice on managing panic attacks. This might include relaxation techniques, breathing exercises, or suggestions for reducing stress. They may also discuss how often panic attacks happen and how severe they are to decide the next steps.

Follow-Up Care and Monitoring

Your provider might schedule follow-up telemedicine visits or recommend an in-person appointment to monitor symptoms. Keeping a diary of panic attacks, noting triggers and feelings, can help during these visits. If therapy is suggested, a mental health professional may be involved to provide counseling or behavioral strategies.

When to Seek Emergency Care

Some symptoms need immediate medical attention. If the child has chest pain, trouble breathing, fainting, severe headache, or confusion, call emergency services or go to the nearest emergency room. These signs may indicate a more serious condition than a panic attack.

How Telemedicine Helps and Its Limits

Telemedicine allows quick access to healthcare providers who can assess symptoms and offer advice without leaving home. It is useful for early evaluation and ongoing support. However, it cannot perform physical exams or emergency interventions. If symptoms worsen or do not improve, an in-person visit is important.

Supporting Your Child at Home

Encourage your child to talk about their feelings and practice calming activities. Healthy sleep, regular exercise, and balanced meals can reduce panic attack frequency. Avoid caffeine and stressful situations when possible. Family support plays a key role in recovery.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Find a quiet, private space for the telemedicine visit.
• Have a list of symptoms, including when panic attacks started and how often they occur.
• Prepare questions or concerns to discuss with the provider.
• Ensure a stable internet connection and charged device.
• Have a trusted adult present if the patient is a child or young teen.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the provider's advice on managing panic attacks at home.
• Keep a symptom diary to track panic attacks and triggers.
• Attend any scheduled follow-up telemedicine or in-person visits.
• Seek emergency care if red flag symptoms appear.
• Consider therapy or counseling if recommended.

FAQs

Can telemedicine visits help treat panic attacks in children?

Yes, telemedicine visits can help by providing initial evaluation, education on coping skills, and guidance on next steps. However, they are often part of ongoing care and may not replace in-person visits when needed.

What should I do if my child has a panic attack during the telemedicine visit?

Try to help your child stay calm using deep breathing or grounding techniques. Inform the healthcare provider about the episode so they can guide you through managing it and advise if emergency care is necessary.

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

Explain what will happen during the visit in simple terms. Help them gather information about their symptoms. Ensure a quiet environment and have a trusted adult nearby for support.

When should I take my child to the emergency room instead of waiting for a telemedicine visit?

If your child experiences chest pain, difficulty breathing, fainting, confusion, or any sudden severe symptoms, go to the emergency room immediately. These signs may indicate a medical emergency.

Can therapy be started through telemedicine?

Many mental health professionals offer therapy via telemedicine. Your healthcare provider may refer you to a specialist who can provide counseling remotely or in person.

Sources

1. Panic Disorder — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. Panic Attacks and Panic Disorder — Mayo Clinic.
3. Panic Disorder Treatment — American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry.
4. Telehealth: What You Need to Know — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

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