How to Prepare for a Telemedicine Visit About Dizziness (Vertigo) in Children

Audience: pediatric

Dizziness or vertigo in children can be concerning for parents and caregivers. Telemedicine offers a convenient way to discuss symptoms with a healthcare provider without leaving home. During a telemedicine visit, the provider will ask about your child's symptoms, medical history, and any recent events that may have triggered dizziness. It is important to prepare by noting when the dizziness started, how often it occurs, and any other symptoms like nausea or headaches. While telemedicine can help assess many causes of dizziness, some situations require in-person evaluation, especially if the child has severe symptoms or sudden changes in behavior. Preparing well for the visit ensures the provider can give the best advice and decide if further tests or treatments are needed.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Sudden weakness, numbness, or paralysis on one side of the body — seek emergency care immediately.
• Difficulty speaking, confusion, or loss of consciousness — call emergency services right away.
• Severe headache with dizziness or neck stiffness — get urgent medical evaluation.

What telemedicine can do

• Initial assessment of mild to moderate dizziness in children.
• Review of symptom history and guidance on home care.
• Determining if further testing or in-person evaluation is needed.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Emergency symptoms such as sudden weakness, severe headache, or loss of consciousness.
• Physical examinations requiring hands-on assessment or imaging.
• Treatment of severe dehydration or other urgent medical conditions.

What is Dizziness and Vertigo in Children?

Dizziness is a feeling of lightheadedness or unsteadiness. Vertigo is a specific type of dizziness where it feels like the room or the child is spinning. These symptoms can be caused by many things, such as infections, ear problems, dehydration, or other medical conditions. Understanding the type of dizziness helps the healthcare provider decide the next steps.

When to Use Telemedicine for Dizziness

Telemedicine is useful for initial evaluation of mild to moderate dizziness in children. It allows you to talk with a healthcare provider quickly and safely. If your child’s dizziness is new, not severe, and not accompanied by other serious symptoms, a telemedicine visit is a good first step.

Information to Have Ready for Your Telemedicine Visit

Before the visit, gather important details such as:

What to Expect During the Telemedicine Visit

The healthcare provider will ask questions about your child's symptoms and medical history. They may observe your child through the camera to check balance, eye movements, and coordination. They will advise if any tests or in-person visits are needed and provide guidance on managing symptoms at home.

When to Seek In-Person Care Immediately

Some signs mean your child needs urgent in-person care. These include:

If any of these occur, call emergency services or go to the nearest emergency room right away.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Find a quiet, well-lit place with good internet connection for the visit.
• Have a list of your child's symptoms, including when they started and how often they occur.
• Prepare to describe any other symptoms like nausea, headache, or hearing changes.
• Gather information about your child's medical history, medications, and allergies.
• Have a device with a camera and microphone ready for the video call.
• Write down any questions or concerns you want to discuss with the provider.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the healthcare provider’s advice on managing symptoms at home.
• Monitor your child’s symptoms and note any changes or worsening.
• Schedule any recommended follow-up visits or tests.
• Seek immediate care if red flag symptoms develop.
• Keep a record of your child’s symptoms and treatments for future visits.

FAQs

Can telemedicine diagnose the cause of my child's dizziness?

Telemedicine can help the healthcare provider understand your child's symptoms and decide if more tests or in-person exams are needed. However, some causes require physical exams or imaging that cannot be done through a video visit.

What should I do if my child’s dizziness gets worse after the telemedicine visit?

If your child’s symptoms worsen or new concerning signs appear, seek in-person medical care promptly. Use emergency services if severe symptoms like weakness, confusion, or loss of consciousness occur.

Can dehydration cause dizziness in children?

Yes, dehydration is a common cause of dizziness in children. Ensuring your child drinks enough fluids can help, but if dehydration is severe, medical treatment may be necessary.

How can I help my child during a dizziness episode at home?

Help your child sit or lie down safely to prevent falls. Encourage slow, deep breaths and avoid sudden movements. Keep them hydrated and monitor symptoms closely.

Sources

1. Dizziness in Children — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. Vertigo and Dizziness in Children: Diagnosis and Management — National Library of Medicine.
3. When to Seek Emergency Care for Dizziness — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
4. Dizziness and Vertigo in Children — Mayo Clinic.

This telemedicine guidance is for educational and informational purposes only and is not a substitute for in-person medical care. If your child has severe symptoms or emergency signs, seek immediate medical attention.