Red flags & when to go in person for Poor Appetite in Children

Audience: pediatric

Poor appetite in children is common and can be caused by many mild issues like minor illnesses or changes in routine. Often, it improves on its own or with simple care. Telemedicine can help assess your child's symptoms, provide advice, and guide you on next steps. However, some signs require prompt in-person evaluation to ensure your child's health and safety. Knowing when to seek urgent care is important to avoid complications. This guide explains red flags to watch for, what telemedicine can and cannot handle, and how to prepare for and follow up after a tele-visit.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Difficulty breathing or very fast breathing — seek emergency care immediately.
• Persistent vomiting or inability to keep fluids down — go to urgent care or emergency.
• Signs of dehydration such as dry mouth, no tears when crying, very little urine output — seek prompt medical evaluation.

What telemedicine can do

• Mild poor appetite without other serious symptoms.
• Parental guidance on feeding and hydration strategies.
• Monitoring mild symptoms and advising on when to seek in-person care.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Severe breathing difficulties or respiratory distress.
• Persistent vomiting or dehydration signs.
• High fever lasting more than 2 days or severe abdominal pain.
• Lethargy or unresponsiveness requiring urgent evaluation.

What Causes Poor Appetite in Children?

Poor appetite can happen for many reasons, such as mild infections (like colds), teething, changes in routine, or stress. Sometimes, it is temporary and not serious. However, poor appetite lasting more than a few days or accompanied by other symptoms may need medical attention.

When to Use Telemedicine for Poor Appetite

Telemedicine can be useful if your child has a mild decrease in appetite without other concerning signs. A healthcare provider can ask questions, observe your child, and suggest ways to improve appetite or monitor symptoms at home. This can save time and reduce exposure to others.

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

Before your tele-visit, gather information to help the provider:

After the Telemedicine Visit

Follow the provider's advice carefully. This may include:

Keep track of any changes and communicate with your healthcare provider as needed.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Note the duration of poor appetite.
• List any additional symptoms (fever, vomiting, diarrhea, behavior changes).
• Have recent weight and height measurements if available.
• Describe typical eating and drinking patterns.
• Prepare any questions or concerns.
• Ensure a quiet, well-lit space with reliable internet or phone connection.

After your tele-visit

• Follow provider’s advice on feeding and hydration.
• Monitor for any worsening symptoms or new red flags.
• Schedule follow-up if symptoms persist or worsen.
• Seek in-person care if any red flags develop.
• Keep a symptom diary to share with your healthcare provider if needed.

FAQs

Can poor appetite in children be normal?

Yes, children often have days when they eat less, especially during minor illnesses or changes in routine. This is usually temporary and not a cause for concern if your child is otherwise well.

When should I worry about my child's poor appetite?

You should seek medical care if poor appetite lasts more than a few days and is accompanied by other symptoms like fever, vomiting, dehydration, weight loss, or changes in behavior.

Can telemedicine replace in-person visits for poor appetite?

Telemedicine is helpful for initial assessment and advice for mild cases. However, if your child has serious symptoms or red flags, an in-person visit is necessary for proper evaluation and treatment.

What can I do at home to help my child with poor appetite?

Offer small, frequent meals and fluids. Avoid forcing your child to eat. Keep mealtimes calm and pleasant. Monitor their hydration and energy levels, and follow any advice given by your healthcare provider.

Sources

1. Poor Appetite in Children — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. Feeding Difficulties and Poor Appetite in Children — American Academy of Pediatrics.
3. When to Seek Care for Your Child — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
4. Poor Appetite and Feeding Problems in Children — Mayo Clinic.

This telemedicine guidance is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for in-person medical evaluation and care. If your child shows any red flags or you are concerned about their health, seek prompt medical attention.