How to prepare for a telemedicine visit about Nasal Congestion

Audience: pediatric

Nasal congestion in children is a common symptom that can be caused by colds, allergies, or other infections. Preparing for a telemedicine visit can help you get the most out of the appointment and ensure your child's symptoms are properly assessed. During the visit, a healthcare provider will ask about your child's symptoms, medical history, and any treatments tried so far. Telemedicine can be a convenient way to discuss mild to moderate nasal congestion, but some situations require in-person care. Knowing when to seek urgent help or a physical exam is important for your child's safety. This guide helps you prepare for your telemedicine visit, understand what telemedicine can and cannot do, and what to do after the visit to support your child's recovery.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Child has difficulty breathing or noisy breathing — seek emergency care immediately.
• High fever (above 39°C or 102°F) lasting more than 3 days — contact a healthcare provider promptly.
• Symptoms worsen or do not improve after 10 days — arrange for an in-person evaluation.

What telemedicine can do

• Mild to moderate nasal congestion without severe symptoms
• Advice on home care and over-the-counter treatments
• Assessment of symptom history and progression

What telemedicine cannot do

• Severe breathing difficulties or respiratory distress
• Persistent high fever requiring physical examination
• Suspected complications needing diagnostic tests or procedures

What to Expect During the Telemedicine Visit

The healthcare provider will ask about your child's symptoms, such as how long the congestion has lasted, if there is fever, cough, or difficulty breathing. They may request you show your child's nose or throat using the camera. Be ready to describe any medicines or home treatments you have tried. The provider will use this information to suggest next steps or treatments.

When Telemedicine Is Appropriate for Nasal Congestion

Telemedicine visits are often suitable for mild to moderate nasal congestion without severe symptoms. Providers can help identify if symptoms are due to common colds, allergies, or mild infections. They can recommend home care tips, over-the-counter medicines, or when to watch for worsening signs.

When to Seek In-Person Care

If your child has difficulty breathing, persistent high fever, severe pain, or symptoms lasting more than 10 days without improvement, an in-person exam is usually needed. Physical exams, tests, or treatments like nasal suctioning may require a healthcare facility visit.

How to Prepare for the Telemedicine Visit

Gather information about your child's symptoms, including when they started and any changes. Have a list of current medicines and allergies ready. Find a quiet, well-lit place with good internet connection. Have a flashlight or phone light handy to help show your child's nose or throat if asked.

After the Telemedicine Visit

Follow the provider's advice carefully. Give medicines as directed and monitor your child's symptoms. If symptoms worsen or new red flags appear, seek in-person care promptly. Keep a record of any changes to share with healthcare providers if needed.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Note when nasal congestion started and any other symptoms.
• List current medicines and allergies.
• Find a quiet, well-lit area with good internet connection for the visit.
• Have a flashlight or phone light ready to help show your child's nose or throat if needed.
• Prepare to describe any home treatments or medicines already tried.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the healthcare provider's instructions for medicines and care.
• Monitor your child's symptoms closely for any changes.
• Seek in-person care if red flags or worsening symptoms appear.
• Keep a record of your child's symptoms and any treatments given.
• Schedule follow-up appointments if recommended.

FAQs

Can telemedicine diagnose the cause of my child's nasal congestion?

Telemedicine providers can often assess symptoms and suggest likely causes such as colds or allergies based on history and visual checks. However, some causes require physical exams or tests that need in-person visits.

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

If symptoms worsen, especially with difficulty breathing, high fever, or prolonged illness, seek in-person medical care promptly. Telemedicine is not a substitute for emergency or urgent physical evaluation.

Are there home remedies I can use to help my child?

Yes, simple measures like using a humidifier, saline nasal sprays, and ensuring your child drinks plenty of fluids can help relieve nasal congestion. Your telemedicine provider can offer specific advice based on your child's condition.

How do I show my child's nose or throat during the video visit?

Use good lighting and a flashlight or phone light to help the provider see inside your child's nose or throat. Position the camera steadily and follow the provider's instructions for the best view.

Sources

1. Nasal Congestion — MedlinePlus | U.S. National Library of Medicine / National Institutes of Health.
2. Common Cold — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
3. Allergic Rhinitis — Mayo Clinic.
4. Telehealth: What You Need to Know — American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP).

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, worsening, or you are concerned at any time, seek prompt medical attention from a healthcare professional or emergency services.