Red flags & when to go in person for Frequent Infections

Audience: adult

Frequent infections can be a sign that your immune system needs attention. While many infections can be managed with the help of telemedicine, some situations require in-person evaluation to ensure proper care. This guide helps you understand when telemedicine is appropriate and when you should seek in-person medical care. Recognizing red flags—such as high fever, severe pain, or worsening symptoms—is important for your safety. Preparing for a telemedicine visit can help you get the most out of your appointment, and following aftercare steps ensures better recovery. Always remember that telemedicine is a helpful tool but not a replacement for urgent or emergency care when needed.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• High fever lasting more than 3 days or not responding to fever reducers — seek in-person care promptly.
• Severe pain, swelling, or redness indicating possible spreading infection — go to a healthcare facility immediately.
• Difficulty breathing, chest pain, confusion, or sudden weakness — call emergency services or go to the emergency room.

What telemedicine can do

• Discussing symptoms and medical history related to frequent infections.
• Providing advice on managing mild or improving infections.
• Reviewing test results and adjusting medications.
• Planning routine follow-up care and preventive measures.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Performing physical examinations or procedures requiring hands-on care.
• Diagnosing severe or rapidly worsening infections needing urgent intervention.
• Administering intravenous medications or emergency treatments.
• Conducting laboratory tests or imaging studies in person.

Understanding Frequent Infections

Frequent infections mean you get infections more often than usual. These can include colds, urinary tract infections, skin infections, or other illnesses caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi. Sometimes, frequent infections may point to an underlying health issue affecting your immune system. It's important to monitor your symptoms and seek advice when infections happen repeatedly.

When Telemedicine Can Help

Telemedicine allows you to consult healthcare providers remotely. It can help with:

Telemedicine is convenient for routine check-ins and when symptoms are mild or improving.

When to Seek In-Person Care

Some signs mean you should see a healthcare provider in person or go to an emergency facility:

In-person visits allow for physical exams, lab tests, and treatments that cannot be done remotely.

Preparing for Your Telemedicine Visit

To make your telemedicine visit effective:

Being prepared helps your healthcare provider give you the best advice.

After Your Telemedicine Appointment

After your visit:

Keep communication open with your healthcare provider for ongoing support.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Write down all current symptoms and their duration.
• List all medications, supplements, and allergies.
• Prepare your medical history, especially past infections and immune conditions.
• Find a quiet, private space with reliable internet or phone connection.
• Have a list of questions or concerns ready to discuss.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the treatment plan and take medications as prescribed.
• Schedule and complete any recommended tests or in-person visits.
• Monitor your symptoms daily and note any changes.
• Seek immediate care if red flags or worsening symptoms appear.
• Keep in touch with your healthcare provider for updates or concerns.

FAQs

Can telemedicine diagnose the cause of my frequent infections?

Telemedicine can help your healthcare provider understand your symptoms and medical history, but diagnosing the exact cause of frequent infections often requires physical exams and laboratory tests that must be done in person.

What should I do if my symptoms get worse after a telemedicine visit?

If your symptoms worsen or you develop any red flags such as high fever, severe pain, or difficulty breathing, seek in-person medical care promptly. Telemedicine is not a substitute for emergency or urgent care.

How can I prevent frequent infections?

Preventing infections includes good hygiene, balanced nutrition, adequate sleep, managing chronic conditions, and following your healthcare provider's advice. Vaccinations may also help prevent certain infections.

Is telemedicine safe for managing infections?

Telemedicine is a safe and effective way to manage many mild infections and follow-up care. However, it is important to recognize when in-person care is necessary to ensure your safety.

Sources

1. Frequent Infections — MedlinePlus | U.S. National Library of Medicine / National Institutes of Health.
2. When to Seek Medical Care for Infections — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
3. Telemedicine: What You Need to Know — Mayo Clinic.
4. Managing Recurrent Infections — National Institute of Allergy & Infectious Diseases (NIAID).

This telemedicine guidance is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional in-person medical care. If you experience any red flags or worsening symptoms, seek immediate medical attention.