What Happens After a Telemedicine Visit for Traveler’s Diarrhea in Children

Audience: pediatric

Traveler’s diarrhea is a common illness in children who travel to new places. After a telemedicine visit, you will usually get advice on how to care for your child at home. This often includes tips on keeping your child hydrated, what foods and drinks are best, and when to watch for warning signs. Your healthcare provider may suggest medicines to help with symptoms or to treat infections if needed. It’s important to follow the advice given and keep track of your child’s condition. If symptoms get worse or new problems appear, you may need to see a doctor in person. Telemedicine helps you get quick advice without leaving home, but some situations need hands-on care. This guide explains what to expect after your telemedicine visit and how to keep your child safe and comfortable.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Child shows signs of dehydration (dry mouth, no tears, very little urine) — seek immediate medical care.
• Child has blood or mucus in stool — contact healthcare provider promptly.
• Child has high fever or persistent vomiting — get urgent medical attention.

What telemedicine can do

• Initial assessment of symptoms and medical history.
• Providing advice on hydration and diet.
• Recommending over-the-counter medicines for symptom relief.
• Guidance on when to seek in-person care.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Physical examination requiring hands-on assessment.
• Severe dehydration management requiring intravenous fluids.
• Emergency interventions for complications.
• Laboratory testing or imaging procedures.

Understanding Traveler’s Diarrhea in Children

Traveler’s diarrhea happens when children eat or drink something with germs they are not used to. It can cause loose stools, stomach pain, nausea, or fever. Most cases get better with simple care at home, but young children need careful attention to avoid dehydration.

What to Expect After Your Telemedicine Visit

During your telemedicine visit, the healthcare provider will ask about your child’s symptoms and health history. After the visit, you will receive guidance on how to manage symptoms, including:

You may also get instructions on when to follow up or seek in-person care.

How to Care for Your Child at Home

Home care often includes:

Always follow the specific advice given by your healthcare provider.

When to Seek In-Person Medical Care

Some signs mean your child needs urgent medical attention:

If these happen, go to a healthcare facility promptly.

Follow-Up and Monitoring

Keep track of your child’s symptoms and hydration. If symptoms do not improve within a few days or get worse, contact your healthcare provider again. Follow any instructions about follow-up visits or tests.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Have your child’s recent symptoms and their duration ready to describe.
• List any medicines your child is currently taking.
• Prepare to describe your child’s recent travel locations and food/water exposures.
• Ensure a quiet, well-lit space for the telemedicine visit.
• Have a thermometer and any recent vital signs available if possible.

After your tele-visit

• Follow hydration and diet instructions carefully.
• Administer any recommended medicines as directed.
• Watch for red flag symptoms and seek care if they appear.
• Keep a symptom diary to share during follow-up.
• Contact your healthcare provider if symptoms worsen or do not improve within a few days.

FAQs

Can I treat my child’s traveler’s diarrhea at home?

Many cases can be managed at home with fluids and rest. However, it’s important to follow your healthcare provider’s advice and watch for warning signs that need medical care.

What fluids are best for a child with diarrhea?

Oral rehydration solutions are best because they replace fluids and salts lost. Avoid sugary drinks and caffeine, which can worsen diarrhea.

When should I call a doctor after the telemedicine visit?

Call if your child shows signs of dehydration, has blood in stool, persistent vomiting, high fever, or if symptoms do not improve within a few days.

Are antibiotics always needed for traveler’s diarrhea?

Not always. Many cases improve without antibiotics. Your healthcare provider will decide if antibiotics are necessary based on symptoms and risk factors.

Sources

1. Traveler's Diarrhea — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
2. Diarrhea in Children — American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP).
3. Traveler’s Diarrhea — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
4. Traveler's Diarrhea Treatment — Mayo Clinic.

This telemedicine guidance is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for in-person medical care. If your child’s condition worsens or you have concerns, seek care from a healthcare professional promptly.