How to Prepare for a Telemedicine Visit About Nipple Discharge - Triage

Audience: pediatric

Nipple discharge in children can be concerning for parents and caregivers. This guide helps you prepare for a telemedicine visit to discuss nipple discharge, focusing on what information to share and when to seek in-person care. Telemedicine can help evaluate many common causes of nipple discharge, such as hormonal changes or minor infections. However, some situations require physical exams or tests that can only be done in person. Preparing for your visit by noting symptoms, timing, and any other health changes will help your healthcare provider give the best advice. Remember, telemedicine is a tool to support care but is not a replacement for emergency or urgent medical attention if serious signs appear.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Discharge that is bloody or greenish in color — seek in-person evaluation promptly.
• Presence of a painful lump or swelling near the nipple — urgent medical assessment needed.
• Signs of infection such as fever, redness, or warmth around the nipple — get immediate care.

What telemedicine can do

• Initial assessment of nipple discharge symptoms.
• Review of medical history related to discharge.
• Guidance on home care and monitoring.
• Determining if further tests or in-person visits are necessary.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Physical examination requiring palpation or imaging.
• Laboratory tests or cultures of discharge.
• Emergency treatment for infections or severe symptoms.
• Surgical consultations or interventions.

What Is Nipple Discharge in Children?

Nipple discharge means fluid coming from the nipple. In children, it can be normal due to hormonal changes, especially around puberty. Sometimes, it may be caused by infections, injuries, or other health issues. Understanding the type of discharge and related symptoms helps healthcare providers decide the next steps.

When to Use Telemedicine for Nipple Discharge

Telemedicine is useful for discussing symptoms, reviewing medical history, and deciding if further tests are needed. It is often suitable when the discharge is clear or milky, occurs in one or both nipples, and there are no other worrying signs. The provider can guide you on home care and when to seek in-person evaluation.

Information to Prepare Before Your Telemedicine Visit

\1

What to Expect During the Telemedicine Visit

The healthcare provider will ask detailed questions about the discharge and other symptoms. They may guide you to show the nipple area on camera if possible and safe. Based on the information, they will advise if home care is appropriate or if an in-person visit is needed for tests or treatment.

When to Seek In-Person Care Immediately

If your child has nipple discharge along with fever, severe pain, a lump in the breast area, bloody discharge, or signs of infection like redness and warmth, seek in-person medical care promptly. These may indicate more serious conditions requiring urgent evaluation.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Observe and note the color, amount, and frequency of nipple discharge.
• Record any associated symptoms like pain, redness, or swelling.
• Prepare a list of your child's current medications and medical history.
• Find a quiet, private space with good lighting for the telemedicine visit.
• Have a device ready with a camera and microphone for visual and audio communication.
• Be ready to describe any recent injuries or infections related to the breast area.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the healthcare provider's advice on home care and symptom monitoring.
• Schedule an in-person visit if recommended for further evaluation or tests.
• Watch for any worsening symptoms or new red flags and seek immediate care if they occur.
• Keep a record of any changes in symptoms to report in follow-up visits.
• Contact your healthcare provider if you have questions or concerns after the telemedicine visit.

FAQs

Is nipple discharge normal in children?

Yes, nipple discharge can be normal in children, especially around puberty due to hormonal changes. However, any discharge should be evaluated by a healthcare provider to rule out other causes.

Can I show the nipple discharge during a video visit?

If you feel comfortable and it is safe to do so, you may be asked to show the nipple area on camera to help the provider assess the situation. Ensure privacy and proper lighting during the call.

When should I go to the emergency room for nipple discharge?

Seek emergency care if your child has nipple discharge with severe pain, a lump, fever, redness, warmth, or if the discharge is bloody or greenish. These signs may indicate infection or other serious conditions.

Will my child need tests during the telemedicine visit?

Tests cannot be done during a telemedicine visit, but the provider may recommend in-person visits for imaging or lab tests if needed based on your child's symptoms.

Can infections cause nipple discharge in children?

Yes, infections around the nipple or breast area can cause discharge, often accompanied by pain, redness, and swelling. These usually require in-person evaluation and treatment.

Sources

1. Nipple Discharge — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. Breast Problems in Children and Adolescents — American Academy of Pediatrics.
3. Evaluation of Nipple Discharge — Mayo Clinic.
4. Breast Disorders in Children and Adolescents — National Library of Medicine.

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