Can Telemedicine Treat Post-Concussion Symptoms in Children?

Audience: pediatric

Post-concussion symptoms in children can include headaches, dizziness, trouble concentrating, and fatigue. Telemedicine can be a helpful way to check on these symptoms early, especially when in-person visits are difficult. Through video or phone calls, healthcare providers can ask about symptoms, give advice on rest and gradual return to activities, and decide if further care is needed. However, telemedicine cannot replace a full physical exam or imaging tests that may be necessary for serious cases. If a child shows warning signs like worsening headaches, repeated vomiting, or confusion, urgent in-person care is important. Telemedicine is best used for initial guidance and monitoring mild symptoms, but it is not a substitute for emergency or detailed evaluations. Families should prepare for tele-visits by having symptom notes ready and a quiet space for the call. After the visit, following care advice and watching for red flags is essential.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Severe or worsening headache not relieved by medication — seek emergency care immediately.
• Repeated vomiting or inability to keep fluids down — get urgent medical attention.
• Confusion, difficulty waking, seizures, weakness, or vision changes — call emergency services right away.

What telemedicine can do

• Initial symptom assessment and history taking.
• Providing advice on rest and gradual return to activities.
• Monitoring mild or improving symptoms remotely.
• Answering questions about concussion care and recovery.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Performing physical neurological exams.
• Ordering or interpreting imaging tests like CT or MRI.
• Diagnosing serious brain injuries or complications.
• Managing emergencies or rapidly worsening symptoms.

What Are Post-Concussion Symptoms in Children?

After a child hits their head, they may experience symptoms like headaches, dizziness, nausea, trouble sleeping, or difficulty concentrating. These symptoms can last days or weeks. It's important to watch how the child feels and behaves during recovery.

How Telemedicine Can Help

Telemedicine allows healthcare providers to talk with families through video or phone. They can ask about symptoms, provide advice on rest and activity, and help decide if the child needs to see a doctor in person. This can be convenient and reduce exposure to other illnesses.

Limitations of Telemedicine for Post-Concussion Care

Telemedicine cannot perform physical exams, neurological tests, or imaging like CT scans. If symptoms are severe or worsening, an in-person visit or emergency care is needed. Telemedicine is not suitable for diagnosing serious brain injuries.

When to Seek Emergency Care

If a child has any of these signs, get emergency help immediately:

These symptoms may indicate serious brain injury.

Preparing for a Telemedicine Visit

Before the visit, write down your child's symptoms, when they started, and any changes. Have a quiet place with good internet or phone connection. Keep a list of medications and any questions ready to ask the provider.

After the Telemedicine Visit

Follow the healthcare provider's advice on rest, activity, and symptom management. Monitor your child closely. If symptoms get worse or new symptoms appear, seek in-person care promptly.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Write down your child's symptoms and when they started.
• Note any changes or worsening of symptoms.
• Prepare a list of current medications and medical history.
• Find a quiet, well-lit space with a reliable internet or phone connection.
• Have a responsible adult present during the tele-visit if possible.
• Prepare questions or concerns to discuss with the healthcare provider.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the provider's instructions on rest and activity levels.
• Keep a symptom diary to track changes or improvements.
• Ensure the child avoids activities that risk another head injury.
• Watch closely for any red flag symptoms and seek in-person care if they occur.
• Schedule follow-up visits as recommended by the healthcare provider.

FAQs

Can telemedicine diagnose a concussion in my child?

Telemedicine can help assess symptoms and guide care but cannot perform the physical exams needed to diagnose a concussion definitively. An in-person evaluation may be necessary.

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

If symptoms worsen or new red flags appear, seek in-person medical care immediately. Telemedicine is not suitable for emergencies.

How soon after a concussion should my child see a healthcare provider?

It's best to contact a healthcare provider as soon as possible after a head injury, especially if symptoms appear. Telemedicine can be a first step for early guidance.

Can my child return to school and sports after a concussion?

Return to school and sports should be gradual and guided by a healthcare provider. Rest is important initially, followed by a slow increase in activities as symptoms improve.

Is telemedicine safe for managing post-concussion symptoms?

Telemedicine is a safe way to get advice and monitor mild symptoms but should not replace emergency or in-person care when needed.

Sources

1. Concussion in Children and Adolescents — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
2. Concussion: Symptoms and Diagnosis — Mayo Clinic.
3. Post-Concussion Syndrome — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
4. Management of Concussion in Children — American Academy of Pediatrics.

This information is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical care. Telemedicine can provide guidance but is not a substitute for in-person evaluation, diagnosis, or emergency treatment. If your child has severe or worsening symptoms, seek immediate medical attention.