How to prepare for a video visit about Peptic Ulcer (Suspected) - Triage

Audience: pediatric

If your child may have a peptic ulcer, preparing for a video visit with a healthcare provider can help you get the best care. Peptic ulcers are sores in the lining of the stomach or upper small intestine that can cause stomach pain, nausea, or vomiting. During the video visit, the provider will ask about your child's symptoms, medical history, and any medicines they take. They may also guide you on next steps, such as tests or treatments. This guide helps you prepare for the visit, understand what telemedicine can and cannot do, and know when to seek urgent care. Remember, telemedicine is a helpful first step but not a replacement for in-person exams when needed.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Vomiting blood or material that looks like coffee grounds — seek emergency care immediately.
• Black or very dark stools indicating possible bleeding — get urgent medical help.
• Severe stomach pain that comes on suddenly — go to emergency services right away.

What telemedicine can do

• Discussing symptoms and medical history.
• Providing initial advice and symptom management.
• Determining if further tests or in-person care are needed.
• Answering questions about peptic ulcers and treatments.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Performing physical exams or procedures.
• Diagnosing complications like bleeding ulcers.
• Offering emergency treatment for severe symptoms.
• Ordering immediate hospital care or surgery.

What is a Peptic Ulcer?

A peptic ulcer is a sore that forms on the inside lining of the stomach or the first part of the small intestine. It can cause pain, especially when the stomach is empty. Children with ulcers may also feel sick or vomit. Ulcers often happen because of infection or certain medicines.

Preparing for Your Child’s Video Visit

Before the visit, write down your child's symptoms, such as when the pain started, how often it happens, and what makes it better or worse. Have a list of all medicines, vitamins, or herbal supplements your child takes. Find a quiet place with good internet and a charged device for the video call. Be ready to describe your child's medical history and any allergies.

What Telemedicine Can Do

During the video visit, the provider can:

What Telemedicine Cannot Do

Telemedicine cannot:

When to Seek Immediate Care

If your child has any of these signs, get emergency care right away:

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Write down your child's symptoms including pain details and timing.
• List all medicines, vitamins, and supplements your child takes.
• Find a quiet, well-lit space with good internet connection.
• Charge your device and test the video app before the visit.
• Have your child's medical history and allergy information ready.
• Prepare questions you want to ask the healthcare provider.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the provider's advice on medicines and diet.
• Schedule any recommended tests or follow-up visits.
• Watch for any worsening symptoms or red flags.
• Keep a symptom diary to share in future visits.
• Contact your provider if new symptoms develop or if symptoms worsen.

FAQs

What causes peptic ulcers in children?

Peptic ulcers in children are often caused by infection with a bacteria called *Helicobacter pylori* or by using certain medicines like non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Stress and spicy foods do not cause ulcers but may worsen symptoms.

Can a video visit diagnose a peptic ulcer?

A video visit can help the provider understand your child's symptoms and decide if further tests are needed. However, diagnosing a peptic ulcer usually requires tests that cannot be done over video, such as an endoscopy.

What should I do if my child’s symptoms get worse after the video visit?

If your child develops severe stomach pain, vomits blood, has black stools, or shows signs of dehydration, seek emergency medical care immediately. For less severe worsening, contact your healthcare provider for advice.

Are peptic ulcers in children serious?

Peptic ulcers can cause discomfort and complications if untreated, like bleeding or infection. With proper care, most children recover well. Early medical advice helps prevent problems.

Sources

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

This telemedicine guidance is for education and triage only. It is not a substitute for in-person medical care, diagnosis, or treatment. If your child has severe or worsening symptoms, seek emergency or in-person care promptly.