How to prepare for a telemedicine visit about Eye Itching

Audience: pediatric

Eye itching in children is a common symptom that can be caused by allergies, infections, or irritants. Preparing for a telemedicine visit can help you get the most out of the appointment and ensure your child receives appropriate care. During the visit, a healthcare provider will ask about symptoms, possible exposures, and medical history. They may guide you on managing mild symptoms at home or recommend in-person care if needed. Telemedicine can often help with initial evaluation and advice but may not replace the need for an eye exam in some cases. Knowing when to seek urgent care is important for your child's safety.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Severe eye pain or sudden vision changes — seek urgent in-person care immediately.
• Intense redness or swelling around the eye that worsens quickly — get emergency evaluation.
• Thick, yellow or green eye discharge or crusting that does not improve — arrange prompt in-person assessment.

What telemedicine can do

• Initial evaluation of mild to moderate eye itching due to allergies or irritants.
• Providing advice on symptom management and home care.
• Follow-up consultations for ongoing symptom monitoring.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Severe eye pain or sudden vision loss.
• Signs of serious infection such as intense redness, swelling, or purulent discharge.
• Conditions requiring a detailed eye exam or specialized tests.

What to Expect During the Telemedicine Visit

Your healthcare provider will ask about your child's eye symptoms, such as when the itching started, if there is redness, discharge, or swelling, and if other symptoms like fever or vision changes are present. They may ask about recent exposure to allergens, irritants, or sick contacts. You might be asked to show the child's eyes using the camera to help the provider assess the condition.

When Telemedicine is Appropriate for Eye Itching

Telemedicine is often suitable for evaluating mild to moderate eye itching, especially when caused by allergies or minor irritants. The provider can suggest treatments like artificial tears or allergy medications and advise on home care. It is helpful for follow-up visits or when you need guidance on symptom management without needing to travel to a clinic.

When to Seek In-Person Care

If your child has severe eye pain, vision changes, intense redness, swelling around the eye, discharge that is thick or yellow/green, or symptoms that worsen quickly, an in-person eye exam is usually necessary. These signs may indicate infections or other serious conditions requiring immediate treatment.

Preparing for Your Telemedicine Visit

Before the visit, gather information about your child's symptoms, any medications or eye drops used, and recent exposures to allergens or irritants. Have a quiet, well-lit space ready with good internet connection and a device with a camera. Prepare to show the child's eyes clearly on camera and have a list of questions or concerns ready to discuss.

After the Telemedicine Visit

Follow the provider's instructions carefully, including any recommended medications or home care steps. Monitor your child's symptoms and contact the provider if symptoms worsen or new symptoms develop. Schedule an in-person visit if advised or if red flags appear.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Find a quiet, well-lit area with a stable internet connection for the visit.
• Have your child's medical history and symptom details ready.
• Prepare a list of questions or concerns to discuss with the provider.
• Ensure your device's camera works and can show your child's eyes clearly.
• Have any current eye medications or products on hand to discuss.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the treatment plan and medication instructions provided.
• Observe your child's symptoms closely for any changes or worsening.
• Contact your healthcare provider if symptoms do not improve or red flags appear.
• Schedule an in-person visit if recommended by the provider.
• Keep a record of symptom changes to share in follow-up visits.

FAQs

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

Telemedicine providers can often identify common causes like allergies or mild irritations based on symptoms and visual assessment. However, some conditions may require an in-person eye exam for a definitive diagnosis.

What should I do if my child's eye itching gets worse after the telemedicine visit?

If symptoms worsen, especially with increased redness, pain, swelling, or discharge, you should seek in-person medical care promptly as these may indicate a more serious condition.

Are there any home remedies I can try before the telemedicine visit?

You can gently rinse your child's eyes with clean water and avoid known allergens or irritants. Avoid rubbing the eyes, as this can worsen symptoms. However, do not use any eye drops or medications without consulting a healthcare provider.

Is it safe to use over-the-counter allergy eye drops for my child?

Some over-the-counter eye drops may be safe, but it's best to consult your healthcare provider before use, especially for young children, to avoid potential side effects or inappropriate treatment.

Sources

1. Eye Allergies — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye) — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
3. Eye Itching and Irritation — Mayo Clinic.
4. Allergic Conjunctivitis — National Library of Medicine.

This telemedicine guidance is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for in-person medical care. If your child's symptoms are severe or worsen, seek immediate medical attention.