Red Flags & When to Go In Person for Fatigue in Children

Audience: pediatric

Fatigue in children is common and can result from many causes, including lack of sleep, stress, or minor illness. Telemedicine can often help assess mild fatigue by reviewing symptoms and offering advice. However, some signs may indicate a more serious problem requiring in-person evaluation. These include sudden or severe tiredness, difficulty breathing, persistent high fever, or changes in behavior and alertness. Recognizing these red flags is important to ensure timely care. This guide helps parents and caregivers understand when telemedicine is suitable and when to seek in-person medical attention for a child's fatigue.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath — seek emergency care immediately.
• Persistent high fever lasting more than 3 days — arrange for in-person evaluation.
• Sudden changes in behavior such as confusion, seizures, or inability to stay awake — go to emergency services.

What telemedicine can do

• Assessment of mild to moderate fatigue symptoms.
• Providing advice on rest, hydration, and nutrition.
• Monitoring symptom progression and deciding on need for in-person care.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Emergency symptoms such as difficulty breathing or seizures.
• Severe or rapidly worsening symptoms.
• Physical examinations or diagnostic tests requiring equipment.

Understanding Fatigue in Children

Fatigue means feeling very tired or lacking energy. In children, it can happen for many reasons such as not enough sleep, stress at school, or a common cold. Usually, fatigue improves with rest and time. However, if fatigue lasts longer than a few days or worsens, it may need medical attention.

When Telemedicine Can Help

Telemedicine allows healthcare providers to talk with you and your child through video or phone. It can be useful for:

Telemedicine is convenient and safe for many mild cases of fatigue.

Red Flags That Need In-Person Care

Certain signs mean your child should be seen in person promptly:

If you notice any of these, seek emergency or urgent care immediately.

Preparing for a Telemedicine Visit

To make the most of a telemedicine appointment:

After the Telemedicine Visit

After your appointment, follow the healthcare provider’s advice carefully. This may include:

Keep emergency numbers accessible in case your child’s condition changes suddenly.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Write down your child's symptoms and when they began.
• Prepare a list of any medications your child is taking.
• Have a thermometer ready to check temperature.
• Ensure a quiet and well-lit environment for the tele-visit.
• Check your internet connection and device functionality.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the healthcare provider's recommendations on care and medication.
• Monitor your child's symptoms closely and note any changes.
• Schedule a follow-up appointment if advised or if symptoms persist.
• Seek in-person care immediately if red flags appear.
• Keep emergency contact numbers accessible.

FAQs

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

Telemedicine can help assess symptoms and suggest possible causes, but it often cannot provide a definitive diagnosis without physical exams or tests. If needed, your provider may recommend an in-person visit for further evaluation.

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

If your child has difficulty breathing, persistent high fever, sudden confusion, seizures, or cannot stay awake, go to the emergency room immediately. These are serious signs that need urgent care.

How long should fatigue last before I seek medical advice?

If your child's fatigue lasts more than a few days, worsens, or affects their daily activities, it is a good idea to consult a healthcare provider, either via telemedicine or in person.

Can stress or school affect my child's fatigue?

Yes, stress, anxiety, and changes in routine such as school demands can cause fatigue in children. Discussing these factors with a healthcare provider can help manage symptoms effectively.

Is it safe to use telemedicine for my child's fatigue during the COVID-19 pandemic?

Telemedicine is a safe way to get medical advice without exposing your child to other illnesses. Providers can guide you on when in-person care is necessary.

Sources

1. Fatigue in Children — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. When to Seek Emergency Care for Children — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
3. Fatigue: Causes and Treatment — Mayo Clinic.
4. Telemedicine: What You Need to Know — National Library of Medicine.

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