How to prepare for a telemedicine visit about Ringing in Ears (Tinnitus) in Children

Audience: pediatric

Ringing in the ears, known as tinnitus, can be concerning for children and their families. It often sounds like buzzing, hissing, or ringing and may come and go or be constant. Telemedicine can be a helpful way to discuss these symptoms with a healthcare provider, especially when in-person visits are difficult. During a telemedicine visit, the provider will ask about the child's symptoms, medical history, and any possible causes, such as recent infections, noise exposure, or medications. While telemedicine can help assess many cases of tinnitus, some situations require in-person care, like sudden hearing loss or severe dizziness. Preparing for your child's telemedicine visit by gathering information and creating a quiet environment can improve the experience. After the visit, follow your provider's advice and watch for any worsening symptoms. Remember, telemedicine is a useful tool but not a replacement for emergency or urgent in-person care when needed.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Sudden or rapid hearing loss in your child — seek emergency care immediately.
• Severe dizziness or balance problems causing falls or inability to stand — get urgent in-person evaluation.
• Weakness, numbness, or difficulty speaking — these may be signs of a serious neurological problem requiring emergency care.

What telemedicine can do

• Initial evaluation of mild or new tinnitus symptoms in children.
• Reviewing medical history and symptom details related to tinnitus.
• Providing advice on symptom management and when to seek further care.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Emergency symptoms such as sudden hearing loss or severe neurological signs.
• Physical examinations requiring specialized equipment or tests.
• Procedures or treatments that require in-person visits.

What is Tinnitus in Children?

Tinnitus is when a child hears sounds like ringing, buzzing, or hissing that others do not hear. It is not a disease but a symptom that can have many causes. Sometimes it happens after loud noise exposure, ear infections, or certain medicines. Tinnitus can be temporary or ongoing and may affect a child's focus or sleep.

When to Use Telemedicine for Tinnitus

Telemedicine is a good option if your child has mild or new tinnitus without other serious symptoms. It allows you to talk with a healthcare provider from home. The provider can ask questions, review medical history, and suggest next steps. Telemedicine is helpful when travel is difficult or to decide if an in-person visit is needed.

Preparing for the Telemedicine Visit

Before the visit, gather information about your child's symptoms: when they started, how often they occur, and any related issues like ear pain or hearing changes. Have a list of current medicines and any recent illnesses. Find a quiet, well-lit space with a good internet connection. Be ready to describe the sounds your child hears and any factors that make it better or worse.

What to Expect During the Visit

The healthcare provider will ask detailed questions about your child's tinnitus and overall health. They may guide you through simple tests or observations, like checking your child's hearing or balance. The provider will discuss possible causes and whether further tests or in-person exams are needed. They will also talk about ways to manage symptoms and when to seek urgent care.

When to Seek In-Person Care Immediately

If your child experiences sudden hearing loss, severe dizziness, weakness on one side of the body, or intense ear pain, seek emergency in-person care. These symptoms may signal serious conditions that need urgent attention. Telemedicine is not suitable for emergencies.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Note when the tinnitus started and how often it occurs.
• List any recent illnesses, ear infections, or loud noise exposures.
• Prepare a list of all medicines and supplements your child is taking.
• Find a quiet, well-lit place with a stable internet connection for the visit.
• Have a way to take notes during the appointment.
• Be ready to describe the sounds your child hears and any factors that affect them.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the healthcare provider’s recommendations for managing tinnitus.
• Monitor your child’s symptoms and note any changes or new symptoms.
• Schedule in-person follow-up if advised or if symptoms worsen.
• Seek emergency care if red flag symptoms appear.
• Keep a diary of tinnitus episodes to share at future visits.

FAQs

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

Telemedicine can help your healthcare provider understand your child's symptoms and medical history, which may suggest possible causes. However, some causes require physical exams or tests that need an in-person visit.

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

If symptoms worsen or new concerning signs develop, contact your healthcare provider promptly. For emergency symptoms like sudden hearing loss or severe dizziness, seek immediate in-person care.

Is tinnitus common in children?

Tinnitus is less common in children than adults but can occur. It often relates to ear infections, noise exposure, or other health issues. Early evaluation helps manage symptoms and address causes.

Can medications cause tinnitus in children?

Yes, some medications may cause or worsen tinnitus. Make sure to inform your healthcare provider about all medicines and supplements your child is taking during the telemedicine visit.

How can I help my child cope with tinnitus?

Encourage quiet relaxation, avoid loud noises, and maintain good sleep habits. Your healthcare provider may suggest strategies or referrals to specialists if needed.

Sources

1. Tinnitus — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. Tinnitus in Children — American Academy of Pediatrics.
3. Tinnitus Information — Mayo Clinic.
4. Tinnitus: Overview and Management — National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD).

This telemedicine guidance is for educational and triage purposes only and is not a substitute for in-person medical care. If your child has emergency symptoms or worsening health, seek immediate in-person evaluation.