How to Prepare for a Telemedicine Visit About Runny Nose (Rhinorrhea) in Children

Audience: pediatric

A runny nose, or rhinorrhea, is a common symptom in children that can be caused by colds, allergies, or other mild infections. Telemedicine can be a helpful way to check your child's symptoms without needing to visit a clinic. During a telemedicine visit, a healthcare provider will ask about your child's symptoms, medical history, and any other health concerns. Preparing for the visit can help make it more effective. However, some signs may need urgent in-person care. This guide explains how to get ready for a telemedicine visit about your child's runny nose, what telemedicine can and cannot handle, and when to seek emergency care. It also includes tips on what to do after the visit and answers common questions parents often have.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Child has difficulty breathing or rapid breathing – seek emergency care immediately.
• High fever (above 39°C or 102°F) lasting more than 3 days – arrange in-person evaluation.
• Signs of dehydration such as dry mouth, no tears when crying, or very little urine output – seek prompt medical attention.

What telemedicine can do

• Mild runny nose with no severe symptoms
• Advice on symptom management
• Determining if in-person care is needed
• Follow-up on ongoing mild symptoms

What telemedicine cannot do

• Severe breathing difficulties
• High fever with worsening symptoms
• Signs of dehydration
• Need for physical examination or diagnostic tests

What to Expect During the Telemedicine Visit

The healthcare provider will ask about your child's symptoms, such as how long the runny nose has lasted, the color of the mucus, and if there are other symptoms like fever or cough. You may be asked to show your child's nose or throat using the camera. The provider will also ask about allergies, recent exposures, and any medications your child is taking.

How to Prepare for the Telemedicine Visit

Make sure your device (phone, tablet, or computer) is charged and connected to a stable internet. Find a quiet, well-lit space. Have a list of your child's symptoms, any medicines given, and questions ready. Keep tissues and a flashlight nearby to help show symptoms if needed. Have your child's medical history accessible.

When Telemedicine is Appropriate for a Runny Nose

Telemedicine can often help with mild runny noses, especially if your child is otherwise well. It is useful for discussing symptoms, getting advice on care, and deciding if further tests or visits are needed. It can help avoid unnecessary travel and exposure to others.

When to Seek In-Person Care

If your child has difficulty breathing, high fever, persistent vomiting, severe headache, or shows signs of dehydration, in-person care is needed. Also, if symptoms worsen or do not improve after a few days, a physical exam may be necessary.

After the Telemedicine Visit

Follow the care instructions given by the healthcare provider. Monitor your child's symptoms closely. Use recommended medications as directed. Schedule follow-up appointments if advised. Seek emergency care if red flag symptoms develop.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Charge your device and ensure internet connection is stable.
• Find a quiet, well-lit area for the visit.
• Prepare a list of your child's symptoms and their duration.
• Have any medications or treatments your child is using ready to discuss.
• Keep tissues and a flashlight nearby to help show symptoms if needed.
• Have your child's medical history accessible, including allergies and past illnesses.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the healthcare provider's instructions carefully.
• Monitor your child's symptoms and note any changes.
• Use medications as directed and report any side effects.
• Schedule follow-up visits if recommended.
• Seek emergency care if any red flag symptoms appear.

FAQs

Can telemedicine diagnose the cause of my child's runny nose?

Telemedicine providers can often assess symptoms and suggest likely causes, such as a cold or allergies, but they may not be able to perform physical exams or tests needed for a definitive diagnosis.

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

If symptoms worsen, especially with new signs like difficulty breathing or high fever, seek in-person medical care promptly.

Is it safe to give my child over-the-counter cold medicines?

Many over-the-counter medicines are not recommended for young children. Always ask the healthcare provider during the telemedicine visit before giving any new medication.

How long does a typical runny nose last in children?

A runny nose from a common cold typically lasts about 7 to 10 days, but this can vary depending on the cause.

Can allergies cause a runny nose in children?

Yes, allergies often cause a clear, watery runny nose and may be seasonal or triggered by specific allergens.

Sources

1. Rhinorrhea (Runny Nose) — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. Common Cold - Symptoms and Causes — Mayo Clinic.
3. Allergic Rhinitis — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
4. Telehealth: What You Need to Know — World Health Organization (WHO).

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