How to prepare for a video visit about Vitamin D Deficiency

Audience: pediatric

Vitamin D deficiency is common in children and can affect bone health and overall growth. A video visit with a healthcare provider can help discuss symptoms, risk factors, and next steps. To make the most of your telemedicine appointment, it helps to prepare by gathering health information and questions. During the visit, the provider may ask about your child's diet, sun exposure, and any symptoms like bone pain or muscle weakness. They may recommend blood tests to check vitamin D levels. This guide explains how to prepare for the visit, what telemedicine can and cannot do, and important signs that need urgent care. Remember, telemedicine is a useful tool for education and follow-up but is not a replacement for in-person medical evaluation when needed.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Child has severe bone pain or visible bone deformities — seek emergency care immediately.
• Child experiences muscle cramps, twitching, or seizures — call emergency services right away.
• Child shows sudden weakness, difficulty walking, or confusion — get urgent medical attention.

What telemedicine can do

• Discussing symptoms and risk factors for vitamin D deficiency.
• Providing education about vitamin D and nutrition.
• Recommending blood tests and interpreting results with follow-up plans.
• Answering questions about supplements and lifestyle changes.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Performing physical exams or imaging studies.
• Providing emergency care for severe symptoms.
• Administering blood tests or treatments in person.

What is Vitamin D Deficiency in Children?

Vitamin D deficiency happens when a child's body does not have enough vitamin D. This vitamin helps the body absorb calcium, which is important for strong bones and teeth. Without enough vitamin D, children may have weak bones, delayed growth, or bone pain. Some children are more at risk, such as those with limited sun exposure, darker skin, or certain medical conditions.

How to Prepare for Your Video Visit

Before your video visit, gather information to share with your healthcare provider:

What to Expect During the Telemedicine Visit

During the video visit, the healthcare provider will ask about your child's symptoms, diet, and lifestyle. They may look for signs of vitamin D deficiency and discuss risk factors. The provider might recommend a blood test to measure vitamin D levels. They will explain possible treatments, such as vitamin D supplements or dietary changes. You can ask questions and discuss any concerns about your child's health.

When to Seek In-Person Care

Some situations require urgent in-person evaluation. Contact emergency services or go to a healthcare facility if your child has:

Telemedicine cannot replace physical exams or emergency care in these cases.

How Telemedicine Can Help and Its Limits

Telemedicine can:

Telemedicine cannot:

If your child needs these services, an in-person visit is necessary.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Prepare a list of your child's symptoms and when they started.
• Note your child's diet and sun exposure habits.
• Have a list of current medications and supplements.
• Write down any questions or concerns you want to discuss.
• Ensure your device is charged and connected to the internet.
• Find a quiet, well-lit space for the video visit.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the healthcare provider's recommendations for testing or treatment.
• Schedule any recommended blood tests as soon as possible.
• Monitor your child's symptoms and report any worsening.
• Keep a record of vitamin D supplements given, if prescribed.
• Plan follow-up appointments as advised by the provider.

FAQs

What foods are good sources of vitamin D for children?

Foods rich in vitamin D include fortified milk and dairy products, fatty fish like salmon and mackerel, egg yolks, and fortified cereals. Your healthcare provider can suggest dietary changes if needed.

How much sun exposure does my child need for vitamin D?

Sun exposure helps the body make vitamin D. Short periods (about 10–15 minutes) of sun on arms and legs a few times a week may be enough, but this varies by skin type, location, and season. Too much sun can cause skin damage, so balance is important.

Can vitamin D supplements cause side effects?

When taken as directed, vitamin D supplements are usually safe. Taking very high doses can cause side effects like nausea or calcium buildup. Always follow your healthcare provider's instructions.

How is vitamin D deficiency diagnosed?

A blood test measuring the level of vitamin D in the body is the standard way to diagnose deficiency. Your provider may order this test based on symptoms and risk factors.

Can telemedicine replace in-person visits for vitamin D deficiency?

Telemedicine is helpful for education and follow-up but cannot replace physical exams, blood tests, or emergency care. Some situations require in-person evaluation.

Sources

1. Vitamin D Deficiency — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. Vitamin D: Fact Sheet for Health Professionals — Office of Dietary Supplements, National Institutes of Health.
3. Vitamin D Deficiency in Children — American Academy of Pediatrics.
4. Telemedicine: What You Need To Know — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

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 emergencies, seek immediate medical attention.