Red flags & when to go in person for Abdominal Pain

Audience: adult

Abdominal pain is a common symptom that can have many causes, ranging from mild to serious. Telemedicine can help assess your symptoms and guide you on next steps. However, some signs mean you should seek in-person care immediately. These include severe or worsening pain, signs of infection, or symptoms suggesting a medical emergency. During a telemedicine visit, a healthcare provider can ask questions, review your history, and help decide if you need tests or urgent care. It is important to prepare for your tele-visit by noting your symptoms, medications, and any other health issues. After the visit, follow your provider's advice carefully and seek emergency care if your condition worsens. Remember, telemedicine is a helpful tool but not a replacement for in-person evaluation when serious problems are suspected.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Severe or sudden worsening abdominal pain — seek emergency care immediately.
• Abdominal pain with fever, chills, or persistent vomiting — see a healthcare provider in person promptly.
• Blood in vomit or stool, or signs of dehydration like dizziness or fainting — go to emergency services without delay.

What telemedicine can do

• Initial evaluation of mild to moderate abdominal pain.
• Review of symptoms and medical history.
• Guidance on symptom management and home care.
• Determining need for further testing or in-person evaluation.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Severe, sudden, or worsening abdominal pain requiring urgent physical examination.
• Symptoms suggesting surgical emergencies like appendicitis or bowel obstruction.
• Signs of serious infection or internal bleeding.
• Cases needing immediate diagnostic imaging or laboratory tests.

Understanding Abdominal Pain

Abdominal pain can come from many different causes, including digestive issues, infections, or problems with organs like the liver, kidneys, or reproductive system. The pain may be sharp, dull, cramping, or constant. Knowing the type, location, and timing of your pain helps healthcare providers understand what might be wrong.

When Telemedicine Can Help

Telemedicine is useful for initial evaluation of mild to moderate abdominal pain. A healthcare provider can ask detailed questions about your symptoms, medical history, and any other health concerns. They can help determine if your pain is likely due to a minor issue that can be managed at home or if you need further testing or in-person care.

Red Flags That Need In-Person Care

Certain symptoms require urgent medical attention. These include:

If you experience any of these, seek emergency care immediately.

Preparing for Your Telemedicine Visit

Before your tele-visit, prepare by:

After Your Telemedicine Visit

Follow your healthcare provider's instructions carefully. This may include:

Remember, if your condition changes suddenly or you feel worse, do not delay going to an emergency department.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Write down detailed information about your abdominal pain (onset, location, type, duration).
• List all current medications, supplements, and any allergies.
• Note any other symptoms such as fever, vomiting, or changes in bowel movements.
• Ensure you have a quiet and private space for the telemedicine visit.
• Have a family member or friend available if you need assistance during the visit.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the healthcare provider's instructions about medications and symptom monitoring.
• Schedule any recommended follow-up appointments or tests.
• Watch for red flag symptoms and seek emergency care if they develop.
• Keep a symptom diary to report changes during follow-up.
• Contact your provider if symptoms worsen or new symptoms appear.

FAQs

Can telemedicine diagnose the cause of my abdominal pain?

Telemedicine providers can evaluate your symptoms and medical history to suggest possible causes and recommend next steps. However, a definitive diagnosis often requires physical exams, tests, or imaging that must be done in person.

When should I go to the emergency room for abdominal pain?

You should seek emergency care if your abdominal pain is severe, sudden, or worsening, especially if accompanied by fever, vomiting, blood in vomit or stool, difficulty breathing, or signs of dehydration like dizziness or fainting.

What should I do if my abdominal pain gets worse after a telemedicine visit?

If your pain worsens or you develop new symptoms like fever, vomiting, or bleeding, contact your healthcare provider immediately or go to the nearest emergency department for evaluation.

Can telemedicine help with chronic abdominal pain?

Telemedicine can be a useful tool for managing chronic abdominal pain by providing follow-up care, medication management, and guidance. However, periodic in-person evaluations may be necessary to monitor your condition.

Sources

1. Abdominal Pain — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. Abdominal Pain: When to Seek Emergency Care — Mayo Clinic.
3. Evaluation of Acute Abdominal Pain — National Library of Medicine.
4. Telemedicine: Opportunities and Developments in Member States — World Health Organization.

This telemedicine guidance is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional in-person medical care. If you experience severe or worsening symptoms, seek immediate medical attention.