What Happens After a Telemedicine Visit for Sinus Infection (Sinusitis) in Children

Audience: pediatric

After a telemedicine visit for a child's sinus infection (sinusitis), parents and caregivers will often receive advice on how to care for the child at home. The healthcare provider may suggest treatments to relieve symptoms such as nasal congestion, pain, and fever. Sometimes, medications like nasal sprays or pain relievers are recommended. Antibiotics are usually not needed unless a bacterial infection is suspected. The provider may also explain signs to watch for that mean the child needs in-person care. Follow-up visits might be suggested if symptoms do not improve or worsen. Telemedicine helps families get timely advice without leaving home, but it is important to know when to seek urgent care. This guide helps families understand what to expect after the tele-visit and how to support their child's recovery safely.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Child has difficulty breathing or swallowing — seek emergency care immediately.
• High fever above 39°C (102°F) lasting more than 3 days or worsening — contact healthcare provider promptly.
• Swelling, redness, or severe pain around the eyes or face — get urgent medical evaluation.

What telemedicine can do

• Initial assessment of sinus infection symptoms in children.
• Providing advice on symptom relief and home care.
• Determining if antibiotics or further care are needed.
• Guidance on when to seek in-person or emergency care.
• Follow-up consultations if symptoms persist or worsen.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Performing physical exams that require touch or specialized equipment.
• Conducting imaging tests like X-rays or CT scans.
• Administering emergency treatments or procedures.
• Diagnosing complications that need urgent hospital care.

Understanding Sinus Infection in Children

Sinus infection, or sinusitis, happens when the spaces inside the child's nose and head become swollen and blocked. This can cause stuffy nose, facial pain, and sometimes fever. Most sinus infections in children are caused by viruses and get better on their own within 7 to 10 days. Knowing this helps families understand why antibiotics are not always needed.

What Your Telemedicine Provider May Recommend

During the telemedicine visit, the healthcare provider may suggest ways to ease your child's symptoms. These can include:

If bacterial infection is suspected, the provider might prescribe antibiotics, but this is less common.

When to Watch Closely and Seek In-Person Care

It's important to monitor your child's symptoms after the tele-visit. Seek urgent medical care if your child has:

These signs may mean the infection is more serious and needs in-person evaluation.

Follow-Up and Recovery

Most children start feeling better within a week. If symptoms do not improve or get worse, a follow-up telemedicine visit or in-person exam may be needed. Continue home care as advised and keep your child comfortable. Avoid exposure to smoke and allergens that can irritate the sinuses.

How Telemedicine Supports Your Child's Care

Telemedicine allows you to connect with healthcare providers quickly and safely from home. It is helpful for initial advice, symptom management, and deciding if your child needs to see a doctor in person. However, some situations require physical exams or tests that cannot be done online.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Have a list of your child's symptoms ready, including when they started.
• Note any medications your child is currently taking.
• Prepare to describe any allergies or past medical history.
• Ensure a quiet, well-lit space for the tele-visit.
• Have a thermometer and any symptom tracking notes available.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the healthcare provider's instructions for home care carefully.
• Use recommended medications as directed and do not share medications with others.
• Monitor your child's symptoms daily and note any changes.
• Keep your child well hydrated and rested.
• Schedule a follow-up visit if symptoms do not improve or worsen.
• Seek emergency care immediately if red flag symptoms appear.

FAQs

Can my child get antibiotics through telemedicine for sinus infection?

Sometimes, if the healthcare provider suspects a bacterial infection, they may prescribe antibiotics during the telemedicine visit. However, many sinus infections are viral and do not need antibiotics. The provider will decide based on your child's symptoms.

How long does it usually take for a sinus infection to get better in children?

Most sinus infections caused by viruses improve within 7 to 10 days with home care. If symptoms last longer or worsen, follow-up care may be needed.

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

If your child's symptoms worsen or new symptoms like difficulty breathing, high fever, or facial swelling develop, seek in-person medical care promptly or go to the emergency room.

Is it safe to use nasal sprays or rinses for my child?

Saline nasal sprays or rinses are generally safe and can help clear nasal passages. Use products appropriate for your child's age and follow the provider's instructions.

Can telemedicine replace all in-person visits for sinus infections?

Telemedicine is helpful for initial advice and follow-up but cannot replace all in-person visits. Physical exams and tests may be needed if symptoms are severe or do not improve.

Sources

1. Sinus Infection (Sinusitis) — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine / National Institutes of Health.
2. Sinusitis in Children — American Academy of Pediatrics.
3. Sinus Infection — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
4. Sinusitis — Mayo Clinic.
5. Sinusitis: Overview — Merck Manuals Consumer Version.

This telemedicine guidance is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for in-person medical care. If your child's symptoms are severe or worsen, seek immediate medical attention.