Tele-triage for Dizziness (Vertigo) in Children

Audience: pediatric

Dizziness and vertigo in children can be worrying for parents and caregivers. These symptoms may be caused by many different conditions, some mild and others more serious. Telemedicine can help evaluate your child's symptoms quickly and safely, guiding you on the next steps. During a tele-visit, a healthcare provider can ask about your child's symptoms, medical history, and observe their behavior to assess the situation. However, some cases require urgent in-person care, especially if there are signs of severe illness or injury. This guide helps you understand when telemedicine is suitable for evaluating dizziness or vertigo in children and when to seek emergency care. It also provides tips on preparing for a tele-visit and what to expect afterward. Remember, tele-triage is a useful tool but not a replacement for hands-on medical evaluation when needed.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Child becomes unresponsive or loses consciousness — call emergency services immediately.
• Child has sudden weakness, numbness, difficulty speaking, or severe headache — seek urgent medical care.
• Persistent vomiting leading to dehydration or inability to keep fluids down — seek prompt in-person evaluation.

What telemedicine can do

• Mild dizziness or vertigo without other serious symptoms.
• Initial assessment of symptom onset and duration.
• Guidance on home care and monitoring.
• Medication review and advice.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Severe or sudden neurological symptoms (e.g., weakness, numbness).
• Signs of head injury with altered consciousness.
• Persistent vomiting causing dehydration.
• Seizures or loss of consciousness.

Understanding Dizziness and Vertigo in Children

Dizziness is a feeling of lightheadedness or unsteadiness, while vertigo is a sensation that the room or surroundings are spinning. In children, these symptoms can be caused by infections, dehydration, ear problems, head injuries, or other medical conditions. Sometimes, anxiety or medication side effects may also cause dizziness. Identifying the cause is important to guide proper care.

When Telemedicine Can Help

Telemedicine allows healthcare providers to assess your child's symptoms remotely using video calls. Providers can ask detailed questions about the dizziness, observe your child's movements, and review other symptoms. This approach is helpful for mild or recent-onset dizziness without other worrying signs. It can save time and reduce exposure to illnesses in healthcare settings.

Signs That Need In-Person Evaluation

Some symptoms require urgent medical attention and cannot be safely managed through telemedicine. These include:

If your child shows any of these signs, seek emergency care immediately.

Preparing for a Telemedicine Visit

To get the most from your tele-visit, prepare by:

This preparation helps the provider make a thorough assessment.

What to Expect After the Tele-Visit

After the telemedicine appointment, the provider may:

Keep a close watch on your child's condition and follow the provider's instructions carefully.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Ensure a stable internet connection and a device with a camera and microphone.
• Choose a quiet, well-lit room for the tele-visit.
• Prepare a list of your child's symptoms and their timeline.
• Have a list of current medications and recent illnesses ready.
• Enlist help from another adult to assist during the visit if possible.
• Be ready to show your child's movements or behavior on camera.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the provider's instructions for home care and medication.
• Monitor your child's symptoms closely for any changes.
• Schedule follow-up appointments as recommended.
• Seek in-person care promptly if red flag symptoms develop.
• Keep a record of symptom progression to share with healthcare providers.

FAQs

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

Telemedicine providers can evaluate symptoms and help determine if your child's dizziness is likely mild or needs urgent care. However, some causes require physical exams or tests that can only be done in person.

When should I take my child to the emergency room for dizziness?

If your child has sudden weakness, difficulty speaking, loss of consciousness, severe headache, neck stiffness, or persistent vomiting, seek emergency care immediately.

How can I help my child during a dizzy spell at home?

Make sure your child sits or lies down to avoid falls, keep them hydrated, and monitor their symptoms. Avoid sudden movements until dizziness passes.

Is vertigo common in children?

Vertigo is less common in children than adults but can occur due to ear infections, migraines, or other causes. Proper evaluation helps identify the cause.

Can anxiety cause dizziness in children?

Yes, anxiety and stress can sometimes cause dizziness or lightheadedness. A healthcare provider can help determine if this might be a factor.

Sources

1. Dizziness in Children — MedlinePlus | U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. Vertigo and Dizziness in Children: Causes and Treatment — 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 and triage purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional in-person medical evaluation, diagnosis, or treatment. If your child has severe symptoms or you are concerned about their health, seek immediate medical care.