How to Prepare for a Video Visit About Pinworms

Audience: pediatric

Pinworms are tiny parasites that commonly affect children, causing itching around the bottom. A video visit with a healthcare provider can help discuss symptoms, treatment options, and prevention tips without needing to visit a clinic in person. Preparing for the video visit can make the conversation smoother and more helpful. This includes noting symptoms such as itching, sleep problems, or visible worms, and gathering information about when symptoms started and if others in the family are affected. During the visit, the provider may ask questions to understand the situation better and suggest treatment plans or when in-person care is needed. Remember, telemedicine can guide you but is not a replacement for urgent or emergency care if severe symptoms occur.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Child has a high fever (above 38°C or 100.4°F) with abdominal pain — seek urgent care.
• Severe vomiting or inability to keep fluids down — get immediate medical attention.
• Signs of infection around the anus such as redness, swelling, or discharge — contact a healthcare provider promptly.

What telemedicine can do

• Discussing symptoms and history related to pinworms.
• Providing guidance on hygiene and prevention.
• Recommending over-the-counter or prescription treatments.
• Answering questions about pinworm infections and care.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Performing physical exams or laboratory tests.
• Managing severe or complicated infections.
• Treating emergency symptoms like high fever or dehydration.
• Diagnosing other causes of abdominal pain or symptoms requiring in-person evaluation.

What Are Pinworms?

Pinworms are small, white worms that live in the intestines and lay eggs around the anus, causing itching. They are common in children and spread easily through hand-to-mouth contact or contaminated surfaces. Although uncomfortable, pinworm infections are usually not serious and can be treated effectively.

Preparing for Your Video Visit

Before your video visit, write down your child's symptoms, such as itching, trouble sleeping, or noticing worms in underwear or stool. Note when symptoms started and if anyone else in the household has similar signs. Have a list of any medicines your child is taking and any allergies. Ensure your device is charged and connected to a stable internet source. Find a quiet, well-lit place for the visit.

What to Expect During the Visit

The healthcare provider will ask about your child's symptoms and health history. They may guide you on how to check for signs of pinworms and discuss treatment options. The provider can also advise on hygiene measures to prevent spread. Sometimes, they may recommend an in-person visit for testing or treatment if needed.

Treatment and Prevention Tips

Pinworm infections are often treated with medicines that kill the worms. It's important to follow the provider's instructions carefully. Good hygiene helps prevent reinfection: wash hands often, keep fingernails short, wash bedding and clothes regularly, and avoid scratching the affected area.

When to Seek In-Person Care

If your child has severe stomach pain, fever, vomiting, or if symptoms worsen or do not improve after treatment, seek in-person medical care. Also, if you notice signs of infection around the anus or other concerning symptoms, contact a healthcare provider promptly.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Write down your child's symptoms and when they started.
• Note if others in the household have similar symptoms.
• List any medicines your child is taking and allergies.
• Ensure your device is charged and connected to the internet.
• Find a quiet, well-lit place for the video visit.
• Have a list of questions or concerns ready to discuss.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the treatment plan as advised by the healthcare provider.
• Maintain good hygiene practices to prevent reinfection.
• Monitor your child's symptoms and note any changes.
• Schedule a follow-up visit if symptoms persist or worsen.
• Seek in-person care if red flag symptoms develop.

FAQs

What causes pinworm infections in children?

Pinworm infections are caused by tiny worms that spread easily through hand-to-mouth contact, especially when hands are not washed properly. Children often get infected by touching contaminated surfaces or objects and then putting their fingers in their mouths.

Can pinworms go away without treatment?

Pinworm infections may sometimes clear up on their own, but treatment is usually recommended to stop itching and prevent the spread to others. Medicines prescribed by a healthcare provider are effective in killing the worms.

How can I prevent my child from getting pinworms again?

Good hygiene is key to prevention. Encourage frequent handwashing, especially after using the toilet and before eating. Keep fingernails short and clean, wash bedding and clothes regularly, and discourage nail biting or scratching the anal area.

Is it safe to treat pinworms at home?

Many pinworm treatments are available over the counter and can be used safely at home following the instructions. However, it's important to consult a healthcare provider to confirm the diagnosis and get proper advice, especially for young children.

When should I seek emergency care for my child with pinworms?

Seek emergency care if your child develops a high fever, severe abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, signs of dehydration, or if symptoms worsen despite treatment. These may indicate complications or other health issues needing urgent attention.

Sources

1. Pinworm Infection (Enterobiasis) — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
2. Pinworms — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
3. Pinworm Infection — Mayo Clinic.
4. Enterobiasis (Pinworm Infection) — Merck Manuals Consumer Version.

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