What Happens After a Telemedicine Visit for Seasonal Allergies (Allergic Rhinitis) in Children

Audience: pediatric

After a telemedicine visit for seasonal allergies (also called allergic rhinitis) in children, families usually receive advice on managing symptoms and preventing allergy triggers. The healthcare provider may recommend medications like antihistamines or nasal sprays to help reduce sneezing, runny nose, and itchy eyes. They might also suggest ways to avoid pollen and other allergens, such as keeping windows closed during high pollen times and washing hands and clothes after outdoor play. Follow-up visits may be arranged if symptoms do not improve or worsen. It is important to watch for signs that need urgent care, like trouble breathing or high fever. Telemedicine can help families get quick advice and treatment plans but cannot replace emergency care or detailed physical exams. Always keep track of your child's symptoms and communicate with the healthcare provider if you have concerns.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Difficulty breathing, wheezing, or shortness of breath — seek emergency care immediately.
• Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat — call emergency services right away.
• High fever (above 38°C or 100.4°F) with worsening symptoms — contact healthcare provider urgently.

What telemedicine can do

• Initial evaluation of allergy symptoms.
• Providing advice on symptom management and allergen avoidance.
• Prescribing common allergy medications like antihistamines and nasal sprays.
• Scheduling follow-up appointments and monitoring symptom progress.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Emergency treatment for severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis).
• Physical examination requiring in-person assessment (e.g., nasal endoscopy).
• Allergy testing that requires specialized equipment or labs.
• Management of complex or unusual allergy cases needing specialist referral.

Understanding Seasonal Allergies in Children

Seasonal allergies, or allergic rhinitis, happen when a child's immune system reacts to pollen from trees, grasses, or weeds. Symptoms often include sneezing, a runny or stuffy nose, itchy or watery eyes, and sometimes coughing. These symptoms usually occur during certain times of the year when pollen levels are high. While seasonal allergies are common and usually not serious, they can make children uncomfortable and affect their daily activities.

What to Expect After Your Telemedicine Visit

After your telemedicine visit, the healthcare provider will likely review your child's symptoms and medical history. They may suggest medications such as antihistamines or nasal corticosteroids to help control symptoms. The provider will also give advice on avoiding allergens, like keeping windows closed during high pollen days and washing your child's hands and face after being outside. You may receive instructions on how to use prescribed medications safely and when to schedule a follow-up visit.

Managing Symptoms at Home

You can help your child by:

These steps often reduce exposure to allergens and improve symptoms.

When to Seek Emergency Care

Some symptoms need immediate medical attention. Contact emergency services or go to the nearest emergency room if your child experiences:

These signs may indicate a serious allergic reaction or infection requiring urgent care.

Follow-Up and Monitoring

Keep track of your child's symptoms and how they respond to treatment. If symptoms do not improve within a few days, or if they worsen, contact your healthcare provider. Follow-up telemedicine visits may be arranged to adjust treatment or discuss further testing if needed. Regular monitoring helps ensure your child stays comfortable and healthy during allergy season.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Write down your child's symptoms, including when they started and how severe they are.
• List any medications or treatments your child is currently using.
• Note any known allergies or previous allergy treatments.
• Prepare to describe your child's daily activities and possible allergen exposures.
• Have a quiet, well-lit space ready for the telemedicine visit.
• Ensure your device (phone, tablet, or computer) is charged and has a stable internet connection.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the medication instructions provided by the healthcare provider carefully.
• Implement recommended allergen avoidance strategies at home and outdoors.
• Monitor your child's symptoms daily and note any changes or side effects.
• Schedule and attend follow-up telemedicine visits as advised.
• Seek emergency care immediately if your child shows any red flag symptoms.

FAQs

Can my child outgrow seasonal allergies?

Yes, some children may outgrow seasonal allergies as their immune system changes over time. However, others may continue to have symptoms into adulthood. Regular follow-up can help manage symptoms effectively.

Are allergy medications safe for children?

Many allergy medications, like certain antihistamines and nasal sprays, are safe for children when used as directed by a healthcare provider. Always follow the provider's instructions and ask about any concerns during your visit.

Can telemedicine diagnose my child's allergies?

Telemedicine can help assess symptoms and suggest treatment, but it cannot perform allergy tests that require skin or blood samples. If testing is needed, your provider may refer you to an allergy specialist for in-person evaluation.

What should I do if my child's symptoms get worse after starting treatment?

If your child's symptoms worsen or new symptoms develop after starting treatment, contact your healthcare provider promptly. They may adjust the treatment plan or recommend an in-person visit.

How can I reduce my child's exposure to pollen?

You can reduce exposure by keeping windows closed during high pollen times, using air conditioning, avoiding outdoor activities when pollen counts are high, and having your child wash hands and change clothes after playing outside.

Sources

1. Seasonal Allergic Rhinitis — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. Allergic Rhinitis — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
3. Allergic Rhinitis (Hay Fever) — Mayo Clinic.
4. Allergic Rhinitis — American Academy of Pediatrics.

This educational content is not a substitute for professional medical care. Telemedicine guidance can help manage symptoms and provide advice but cannot replace in-person examinations or emergency treatment. Always seek immediate medical attention if your child has severe or worsening symptoms.