How to prepare for a video visit about Stomach Flu (Gastroenteritis)

Audience: pediatric

Stomach flu, also called gastroenteritis, is a common illness in children that causes diarrhea, vomiting, and stomach pain. It is often caused by viruses and usually gets better on its own. Preparing for a video visit about stomach flu can help you get the most from your time with the healthcare provider. Before the visit, gather information about your child's symptoms, such as when they started, how often they vomit or have diarrhea, and any other signs like fever or dehydration. During the visit, the provider will ask questions and may give advice on how to keep your child comfortable and hydrated. Telemedicine can help decide if your child needs in-person care or tests. Remember, if your child has serious symptoms like trouble breathing or signs of dehydration, seek emergency care immediately. This guide helps you prepare for a safe and effective video visit about stomach flu in children.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Child has signs of dehydration: dry mouth, no tears, sunken eyes, very little urine output. Seek emergency care immediately.
• Child has difficulty breathing or is breathing very fast. Call emergency services right away.
• Child vomits blood or has blood in stool, or has severe abdominal pain. Seek urgent medical attention.

What telemedicine can do

• Assessment of common symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, and mild fever.
• Guidance on home care and hydration.
• Advice on when to seek in-person or emergency care.
• Answering questions about the illness and symptom management.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Physical examination requiring hands-on assessment.
• Severe dehydration requiring intravenous fluids.
• Emergency conditions such as breathing difficulties or severe bleeding.
• Diagnostic tests that require laboratory or imaging facilities.

What is Stomach Flu (Gastroenteritis)?

Stomach flu, or gastroenteritis, is an infection that causes inflammation of the stomach and intestines. It often leads to symptoms like diarrhea, vomiting, stomach cramps, and sometimes fever. Most cases are caused by viruses and improve within a few days without special treatment.

How to Prepare for the Video Visit

Before your video visit, write down your child's symptoms, including when they started and how severe they are. Note how many times your child has vomited or had diarrhea, if they are eating or drinking normally, and if they have a fever. Have a list of any medicines your child is taking. Make sure your device has a good internet connection and that you are in a quiet place for the visit.

What to Expect During the Video Visit

The healthcare provider will ask about your child's symptoms and overall health. They may ask you to show your child's general appearance and behavior. They will give advice on care at home, such as how to keep your child hydrated and when to seek further care. They may also tell you signs to watch for that need urgent attention.

How to Care for Your Child at Home

Keep your child hydrated by offering small sips of water, oral rehydration solutions, or clear fluids often. Avoid sugary or caffeinated drinks. Encourage rest and avoid solid foods until vomiting stops, then slowly reintroduce bland foods. Wash hands often to prevent spread to others.

When to Seek Emergency Care

If your child shows signs of dehydration, such as very dry mouth, no tears when crying, sunken eyes, or very little urine, seek care immediately. Also, if your child has difficulty breathing, severe abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, blood in vomit or stool, or is unusually sleepy or hard to wake, get emergency help right away.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Write down when symptoms started and how often vomiting or diarrhea occurs.
• Note any fever or other symptoms like stomach pain or lethargy.
• List any medicines or treatments your child is currently using.
• Ensure your device is charged and has a stable internet connection.
• Find a quiet, well-lit place for the video visit.
• Have a way to take notes during the visit if needed.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the healthcare provider's advice on hydration and diet.
• Monitor your child's symptoms closely for any worsening signs.
• Keep a record of any new or changing symptoms.
• Practice good hand hygiene to prevent spread of infection.
• Schedule a follow-up visit if symptoms do not improve or worsen.

FAQs

Can stomach flu be treated with antibiotics?

No, stomach flu is usually caused by viruses, so antibiotics do not help. Treatment focuses on keeping your child hydrated and comfortable.

How long does stomach flu usually last in children?

Symptoms often last 1 to 3 days but can sometimes continue for up to 10 days. Most children recover without complications.

What fluids are best to give my child with stomach flu?

Offer small amounts of water, oral rehydration solutions, or clear broths. Avoid sugary drinks and sodas, which can worsen diarrhea.

When should I take my child to the emergency room?

Go to the emergency room if your child has signs of dehydration, difficulty breathing, blood in vomit or stool, severe abdominal pain, or is very sleepy and hard to wake.

Sources

1. Gastroenteritis — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. Viral Gastroenteritis — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
3. Gastroenteritis in Children — American Academy of Pediatrics.
4. Gastroenteritis: Symptoms and Causes — Mayo Clinic.

This telemedicine guidance is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for in-person medical care. If your child has severe symptoms or you are concerned about their health, seek immediate medical attention.