How to prepare for a telemedicine visit about Balance Problems in Children

Audience: pediatric

Balance problems in children can be caused by many different issues, ranging from minor to serious. Preparing well for a telemedicine visit helps you share important information with the healthcare provider. During the visit, the provider will ask about your child's symptoms, medical history, and may guide you through simple tests to observe balance and coordination. Telemedicine can be a good first step to understand the problem and decide if further in-person care is needed. However, if your child has sudden severe symptoms or danger signs, immediate medical attention is necessary. This guide helps you prepare for the visit, know what to expect, and understand when to seek urgent care.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Sudden weakness, numbness, or difficulty speaking — seek emergency care immediately.
• Loss of consciousness or seizures — call emergency services right away.
• Severe headache with repeated vomiting — go to the emergency department promptly.

What telemedicine can do

• Initial assessment of balance problems and symptom discussion.
• Guidance on simple balance tests performed at home.
• Advice on monitoring symptoms and when to seek in-person care.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Emergency situations such as sudden neurological deficits or loss of consciousness.
• Physical examinations requiring specialized equipment.
• Urgent imaging or laboratory tests that must be done in person.

What to Expect During a Telemedicine Visit for Balance Problems

During your child's telemedicine visit, the healthcare provider will ask about the symptoms, such as how often your child feels unsteady or dizzy, and if there are any other related issues like headaches or hearing changes. You may be asked to help your child perform simple balance tests on camera, such as standing on one foot or walking in a straight line. The provider will also review your child's medical history and any medications. Based on this, they will suggest next steps, which may include home care advice, monitoring, or referral for in-person evaluation.

How to Prepare for the Telemedicine Visit

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When to Seek Immediate In-Person Care

Certain signs require urgent medical attention and are not suitable for telemedicine alone. Seek emergency care if your child has:

If any of these occur, call emergency services or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Common Causes of Balance Problems in Children

Balance problems may be caused by:

The healthcare provider will consider these possibilities during the telemedicine visit and decide if further tests or referrals are needed.

Tips for After the Telemedicine Visit

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How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Choose a quiet, well-lit room with stable internet.
• Have a device with a working camera ready.
• Write down your child's symptoms and their timeline.
• List all medications and supplements your child is taking.
• Be prepared to assist your child with simple balance tests.
• Have a family member or caregiver available to help if needed.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the healthcare provider's instructions carefully.
• Observe and record any changes in your child's symptoms.
• Schedule any recommended in-person follow-up appointments.
• Keep emergency contact numbers accessible.
• Seek immediate care if red flag symptoms develop.

FAQs

Can telemedicine diagnose the exact cause of my child's balance problems?

Telemedicine can help the healthcare provider understand your child's symptoms and decide if further evaluation is needed. However, it often cannot diagnose the exact cause without in-person exams or tests.

What if my child cannot perform the balance tests during the video visit?

The provider will guide you through simple tests suitable for your child's age and abilities. If your child cannot perform them, the provider may recommend an in-person visit for a thorough evaluation.

Is it safe to wait for a telemedicine visit if my child has mild balance issues?

If the balance problems are mild and not accompanied by red flag symptoms, a telemedicine visit is often a good first step. It allows the provider to assess and advise on next steps safely.

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

If symptoms worsen or new concerning signs develop, contact your healthcare provider promptly or seek emergency care if red flags appear.

Sources

1. Balance Problems in Children — MedlinePlus | U.S. National Library of Medicine / National Institutes of Health.
2. Dizziness and Balance Disorders — Mayo Clinic.
3. Pediatric Vertigo and Balance Disorders — 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 professional in-person medical care. If your child has urgent or severe symptoms, seek immediate medical attention.