How to Prepare for a Telemedicine Visit About Diarrhea

Audience: adult

Diarrhea is a common symptom that can be caused by infections, food reactions, or other health conditions. Preparing well for a telemedicine visit can help your healthcare provider understand your situation and offer the best advice. During the visit, you will discuss your symptoms, recent activities, and any other health issues. Telemedicine can be a convenient way to get guidance on managing diarrhea, especially if symptoms are mild or moderate. However, some signs require urgent in-person care. This guide explains how to prepare for your telemedicine visit, what information to share, and when to seek emergency help. It also covers what telemedicine can and cannot do for diarrhea, helping you make informed decisions about your health.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Severe dehydration signs such as dizziness, fainting, or very dry mouth — seek emergency care immediately.
• High fever above 38.5°C (101.3°F) lasting more than 24 hours with diarrhea — contact healthcare provider urgently.
• Bloody or black stools or severe abdominal pain — require prompt in-person evaluation.

What telemedicine can do

• Mild to moderate diarrhea without severe symptoms
• Providing guidance on hydration and diet
• Assessing symptom history and advising on home care
• Determining need for further testing or in-person care

What telemedicine cannot do

• Severe dehydration requiring intravenous fluids
• Emergency situations with severe abdominal pain or bleeding
• Diagnosing complex underlying conditions needing physical examination or imaging
• Administering treatments or procedures

What to Expect During Your Telemedicine Visit

Your healthcare provider will ask about the details of your diarrhea such as how long it has lasted, frequency, and appearance. They may inquire about other symptoms like fever, abdominal pain, or dehydration signs. Be ready to discuss recent travel, food intake, medications, and any chronic health conditions. The provider will assess your symptoms to decide if home care advice is suitable or if you need further tests or in-person evaluation.

Information to Have Ready Before the Visit

Gather details to share during your visit, including:

Having this information helps your provider make a thorough assessment.

When Telemedicine Is Appropriate for Diarrhea

Telemedicine can often help with mild to moderate diarrhea, especially when:

Your provider may guide you on symptom monitoring and when to seek further care.

When to Seek In-Person Care or Emergency Help

Certain symptoms require urgent evaluation in person, such as:

If you experience these, call emergency services or visit a healthcare facility promptly.

How to Prepare for Your Telemedicine Visit

Before your appointment:

Being prepared helps the visit go smoothly.

After Your Telemedicine Visit

Follow the advice given by your provider. This may include:

If new or worsening symptoms appear, seek in-person care promptly.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Find a quiet, private place with stable internet or phone connection.
• Have your symptom details ready: duration, frequency, stool appearance.
• Prepare a list of current medications and supplements.
• Note any recent travel, food intake, or exposure to sick contacts.
• Write down questions or concerns you want to discuss.
• Ensure your device is charged and telemedicine platform is working.

After your tele-visit

• Follow hydration and dietary advice given by your provider.
• Take any recommended medications as directed.
• Monitor symptoms daily and note any changes.
• Schedule follow-up appointments if advised.
• Seek immediate care if red flag symptoms develop.

FAQs

Can telemedicine diagnose the cause of diarrhea?

Telemedicine can help assess your symptoms and guide initial care, but it often cannot definitively diagnose the cause without physical exams or lab tests. Your provider may recommend in-person evaluation or testing if needed.

What should I do if my diarrhea lasts more than two days?

If diarrhea persists beyond two days, especially with worsening symptoms, contact your healthcare provider for further evaluation. Persistent diarrhea may require additional tests or treatment.

Is it safe to take over-the-counter medicines for diarrhea?

Some over-the-counter medicines may help, but it is best to discuss with your healthcare provider first, especially if you have other health conditions or are taking other medications.

How can I prevent dehydration during diarrhea?

Drink plenty of fluids such as water, oral rehydration solutions, or clear broths. Avoid caffeine and alcohol. Small, frequent sips can help if you feel nauseous.

When should I seek emergency care for diarrhea?

Seek emergency care if you have severe dehydration signs (dizziness, fainting), high fever, bloody or black stools, severe abdominal pain, or persistent vomiting.

Sources

1. Diarrhea — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. Diarrhea: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
3. Diarrhea - Symptoms and Causes — Mayo Clinic.
4. Diarrhea — Merck Manuals: Consumer Version.

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