What Happens After a Telemedicine Visit for Peptic Ulcer (Suspected) - Triage

Audience: pediatric

If your child has symptoms that might be caused by a peptic ulcer, a telemedicine visit can help a healthcare provider understand the situation and decide what to do next. During the visit, the provider will ask about symptoms like stomach pain, nausea, or vomiting. They may suggest tests or treatments based on what they learn. After the visit, you might need to watch your child's symptoms closely, follow specific care instructions, or seek in-person care if symptoms worsen. Telemedicine can guide you on when to get urgent help and how to manage mild symptoms at home. Remember, telemedicine is a helpful tool but does not replace a full physical exam or emergency care when needed.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Severe or worsening stomach pain that does not improve with medication or rest — seek emergency care immediately.
• Vomiting blood or material that looks like coffee grounds — call emergency services or go to the nearest emergency room.
• Black, tarry, or bloody stools indicating possible bleeding in the stomach — seek urgent medical attention.

What telemedicine can do

• Initial symptom assessment and triage for suspected peptic ulcer in children.
• Providing education about symptoms, possible causes, and home care tips.
• Guidance on when to seek urgent or emergency care.
• Follow-up discussions about symptom changes and medication side effects.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Performing physical examinations or diagnostic procedures like endoscopy.
• Administering emergency treatment for severe bleeding or complications.
• Prescribing controlled medications without in-person evaluation where regulations require it.
• Diagnosing complex or unclear cases without further testing.

What to Expect During the Telemedicine Visit

During the telemedicine visit, the healthcare provider will ask about your child's symptoms, such as stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, or changes in appetite. They may inquire about any medications your child is taking and any previous health issues. The provider cannot perform a physical exam but will use your descriptions to assess the likelihood of a peptic ulcer and decide if further testing or in-person care is needed.

Possible Next Steps After the Visit

Based on the telemedicine assessment, the provider may recommend tests like blood work, stool tests, or imaging to confirm the diagnosis. They might suggest starting medications to reduce stomach acid or treat infections if suspected. In some cases, they will advise scheduling an in-person visit for a physical exam or endoscopy. Follow their instructions carefully and keep track of your child's symptoms.

When to Seek Immediate In-Person Care

If your child develops severe stomach pain, vomiting blood, black or bloody stools, difficulty swallowing, or becomes very weak or confused, these are signs of a serious problem. You should seek emergency medical care immediately. Telemedicine providers will emphasize these red flags and guide you on when urgent care is necessary.

Managing Symptoms at Home

For mild symptoms, you can help your child by giving small, frequent meals and avoiding spicy or acidic foods. Encourage plenty of fluids and rest. Follow any medication instructions given by the healthcare provider. Keep a symptom diary to share during follow-up visits.

Follow-Up Care and Monitoring

Your healthcare provider may schedule a follow-up telemedicine or in-person visit to check how your child is responding to treatment. It's important to attend these appointments and report any new or worsening symptoms. Adjustments to treatment may be needed based on your child's progress.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Write down all symptoms your child is experiencing, including when they started and how severe they are.
• List any medications, vitamins, or supplements your child is taking.
• Have your child's medical history available, including previous stomach or digestive issues.
• Prepare a quiet, well-lit space with a device that has a camera and microphone for the telemedicine visit.
• Make a list of questions or concerns you want to discuss with the healthcare provider.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the healthcare provider's instructions regarding medications and diet.
• Monitor your child's symptoms closely and keep a symptom diary if recommended.
• Schedule any recommended tests or in-person visits promptly.
• Contact the healthcare provider if symptoms worsen or new symptoms develop.
• Seek emergency care immediately if any red flag symptoms appear.

FAQs

Can a telemedicine visit confirm if my child has a peptic ulcer?

Telemedicine can help assess symptoms and decide if further testing is needed, but it cannot confirm a peptic ulcer diagnosis without physical exams or tests like endoscopy.

What should I do if my child's symptoms get worse after the telemedicine visit?

If symptoms worsen, especially with severe pain, vomiting blood, or black stools, seek emergency medical care immediately. Otherwise, contact your healthcare provider for advice.

Are there home treatments that can help my child's stomach pain?

Yes, mild symptoms may improve with small, frequent meals, avoiding spicy or acidic foods, staying hydrated, and resting. Always follow your provider's instructions.

How soon will my child need follow-up care after the telemedicine visit?

Follow-up timing varies but is often within days to weeks depending on symptom severity and treatment response. Your provider will guide you on when to return.

Can telemedicine providers prescribe medications for peptic ulcers?

They may suggest or prescribe some medications, such as acid reducers, but some treatments might require in-person evaluation depending on local regulations and the child's condition.

Sources

1. Peptic Ulcer Disease — MedlinePlus | U.S. National Library of Medicine / National Institutes of Health.
2. Peptic Ulcer Disease — Mayo Clinic: Patient Care and Health Information.
3. Peptic Ulcer Disease — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
4. Peptic Ulcer Disease — Merck Manuals: Consumer Version.

This telemedicine guidance is for educational and triage purposes only. It is not a substitute for in-person medical care, diagnosis, or emergency treatment. Always seek immediate medical attention if your child has severe symptoms or emergencies.