Tele-triage for Breast Pain in Children and Adolescents

Audience: pediatric

Breast pain in children and adolescents can be worrying for families, but it is often caused by harmless changes related to growth and development. Tele-triage can help caregivers understand when breast pain needs medical attention and when it can be monitored at home. Through a telemedicine visit, healthcare providers can ask about symptoms, medical history, and any changes in the breast to guide next steps. However, some signs require in-person evaluation to ensure safety and proper care. This guide explains how tele-triage works for pediatric breast pain, what to watch for, and how to prepare for and follow up after a telemedicine visit. Remember, telemedicine is a helpful tool but does not replace a physical exam when needed.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• A hard, fixed breast lump that is growing or does not go away — seek in-person medical evaluation promptly.
• Redness, warmth, or swelling of the breast, especially if accompanied by fever — seek urgent medical care.
• Nipple discharge that is bloody or unusual in color or amount — consult a healthcare provider in person soon.

What telemedicine can do

• Initial assessment of mild to moderate breast pain related to growth or hormonal changes.
• Discussion of symptom history and general health to guide care recommendations.
• Providing advice on symptom monitoring and home care measures.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Physical examination to evaluate lumps or suspicious breast changes.
• Imaging studies such as ultrasound or mammography.
• Procedures like biopsy or treatment of infections requiring hands-on care.

Common Causes of Breast Pain in Children and Adolescents

Breast pain in young people is often linked to normal growth, hormonal changes during puberty, or minor injuries. Sometimes, infections or cysts can cause discomfort. Rarely, breast pain may be related to more serious conditions, but these are uncommon in this age group. Understanding the usual causes can help reduce worry and guide appropriate care.

How Tele-triage Can Help

Tele-triage allows healthcare providers to assess breast pain remotely by discussing symptoms, duration, and any other health concerns. Providers can help decide if the pain is likely harmless or if an in-person visit is needed. This approach can save time and reduce unnecessary travel, especially when symptoms are mild and stable.

When to Seek In-Person Care

Certain signs require prompt medical evaluation, including:

If any of these occur, an in-person exam is important to diagnose and treat the cause properly.

Preparing for Your Telemedicine Visit

To get the most from your tele-visit:

These steps help the provider understand the situation clearly.

After Your Telemedicine Visit

After the tele-visit, follow the provider's advice carefully. This may include:

Keep track of any new symptoms and stay in touch with your healthcare provider as needed.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Choose a quiet, private area with good lighting for the tele-visit.
• Prepare a list of symptoms including onset, duration, and changes over time.
• Have information ready about any recent injuries, infections, or other health concerns.
• Know your child's medical and family history related to breast health.
• Be ready to describe any medications or treatments already tried.
• Have a device capable of video calls and a way to take photos if requested.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the healthcare provider’s recommendations carefully.
• Monitor symptoms daily and note any changes or new signs.
• Schedule an in-person visit if advised or if symptoms worsen.
• Use over-the-counter pain relief as directed if appropriate.
• Seek emergency care if red flags such as severe pain, fever, or unusual discharge develop.
• Keep a record of all communications and instructions from your healthcare provider.

FAQs

Is breast pain common in children and teenagers?

Yes, breast pain is often related to normal growth and hormonal changes during puberty. It is usually temporary and not a sign of serious illness.

Can telemedicine diagnose the cause of breast pain?

Telemedicine can help assess symptoms and guide whether further in-person evaluation is needed, but it cannot replace a physical exam or imaging tests when those are necessary.

What should I do if my child has a lump in the breast?

If you notice a lump, especially one that is hard, fixed, or growing, seek an in-person medical evaluation promptly to rule out serious conditions.

When should I seek emergency care for breast pain?

Seek emergency care if your child has severe pain, redness and swelling with fever, or unusual nipple discharge, as these may indicate infection or other urgent problems.

How can I help my child manage breast pain at home?

Comfort measures include wearing a well-fitting bra, using warm or cold compresses, and over-the-counter pain relievers if appropriate. Always follow your healthcare provider’s advice.

Sources

1. Breast Pain — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. Breast Pain (Mastalgia) — Mayo Clinic.
3. Breast Disorders in Children and Adolescents — American Academy of Pediatrics.
4. Telemedicine: What You Need to Know — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

This telemedicine guidance is for educational and triage purposes only and is not a substitute for in-person medical evaluation and care. If you have concerns about breast pain or notice any warning signs, please seek prompt medical attention.