How to prepare for a telemedicine visit about Eye Discharge

Audience: pediatric

Eye discharge in children can be caused by infections, allergies, or other eye conditions. A telemedicine visit can help healthcare providers assess the symptoms, offer advice, and guide treatment when appropriate. Preparing well for the visit ensures clear communication and accurate evaluation. This includes noting symptom details, having good lighting, and preparing to show the child's eyes during the call. While many cases of eye discharge can be managed remotely, some signs require urgent in-person care. Understanding when to seek emergency help is important for your child's safety.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Severe eye pain or inability to open the eye — seek emergency care immediately.
• Sudden changes or loss of vision — urgent in-person evaluation needed.
• Swelling around the eye with fever — seek prompt medical attention.

What telemedicine can do

• Mild to moderate eye discharge without severe pain or vision changes
• Initial assessment and advice on home care
• Determining if medications are needed
• Guidance on when to seek in-person care

What telemedicine cannot do

• Severe eye pain or trauma
• Sudden vision loss or significant vision changes
• Eye injuries with foreign objects
• Severe swelling or signs of spreading infection
• High fever with eye symptoms

What to Expect During the Telemedicine Visit

During the telemedicine visit, the healthcare provider will ask about your child's symptoms, such as when the discharge started, its color and amount, and any other symptoms like redness or pain. You may be asked to show the child's eyes using the camera to help the provider see the discharge and eye condition. The provider will guide you on care steps and whether any medications or follow-up visits are needed.

How to Prepare for the Telemedicine Visit

Prepare a quiet, well-lit space where you can easily show your child's eyes on camera. Have a clean cloth or tissue nearby to gently wipe the eye if needed during the visit. Write down key information like when symptoms began, any recent illnesses, allergies, or exposure to others with eye infections. Have a list of any medications your child is taking.

When Telemedicine is Appropriate for Eye Discharge

Telemedicine can often help with mild to moderate eye discharge, especially if there is no severe pain, vision changes, or other serious symptoms. It is useful for initial assessment and guidance on home care or medication use. It can also help decide if an in-person visit is needed.

When to Seek In-Person Care Immediately

Seek urgent in-person care if your child has:

These signs may indicate a serious infection or injury requiring immediate attention.

Tips for After the Telemedicine Visit

Follow the healthcare provider’s instructions carefully. Use any prescribed medications as directed. Monitor your child's symptoms and watch for any worsening or new signs. Schedule any recommended follow-up visits. Keep your child’s hands clean and avoid touching the eyes to prevent spreading infection.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Find a quiet, well-lit area for the visit.
• Have a clean cloth or tissue ready to gently wipe the eye if needed.
• Prepare to show your child's eyes clearly on camera.
• Write down when symptoms started and details about the discharge.
• List any recent illnesses, allergies, or exposures to others with eye infections.
• Have a list of current medications your child is taking.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the healthcare provider’s instructions on medications and care.
• Monitor your child's symptoms for improvement or worsening.
• Keep the child's hands clean and discourage eye rubbing.
• Schedule any recommended follow-up visits.
• Seek immediate care if red flags or worsening symptoms appear.

FAQs

Can telemedicine diagnose the cause of my child's eye discharge?

Telemedicine providers can often assess symptoms and appearance to suggest possible causes and recommend treatment. However, some cases may require in-person examination or tests for a definitive diagnosis.

Is it safe to use eye drops prescribed through telemedicine?

Yes, if prescribed by a qualified healthcare provider during your telemedicine visit, using eye drops as directed is generally safe. Always follow the instructions and ask questions if unsure.

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

If symptoms worsen, especially if you notice increased pain, swelling, vision changes, or fever, seek in-person medical care promptly, even if you had a recent telemedicine visit.

Can allergies cause eye discharge in children?

Yes, allergies can cause watery or mucous eye discharge along with redness and itching. Telemedicine can help differentiate allergic symptoms from infections.

How can I prevent spreading eye infections at home?

Encourage frequent hand washing, avoid sharing towels or pillows, and keep your child from touching or rubbing their eyes to reduce the spread of infection.

Sources

1. Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye) — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. Pink Eye (Conjunctivitis) — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
3. Conjunctivitis — Mayo Clinic.
4. Eye Discharge in Children — American Academy of Pediatrics.

This telemedicine guidance is for educational and triage purposes only and is not a substitute for in-person medical care. If your child has severe symptoms or you are concerned about their health, seek immediate medical attention.