How to Prepare for a Telemedicine Visit About Shortness of Breath in Children

Audience: pediatric

Shortness of breath in children can be worrying for parents and caregivers. A telemedicine visit can be a helpful way to discuss symptoms with a healthcare provider without needing to travel. During the visit, the provider will ask questions about your child's breathing, observe their appearance, and help decide if further care is needed. Preparing for the visit by noting symptoms, any recent illnesses, and medications can make the appointment more effective. However, some signs require immediate in-person evaluation, such as difficulty speaking, blue lips, or severe distress. Telemedicine can guide you on managing mild symptoms and when to seek urgent care, but it is not a substitute for emergency services or physical exams when needed.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Child's lips or face turning blue or gray — seek emergency care immediately.
• Child is unable to speak, cry, or is gasping for air — call emergency services.
• Sudden, severe worsening of breathing or consciousness — go to the nearest emergency department.

What telemedicine can do

• Mild to moderate shortness of breath with stable vital signs.
• Follow-up for known respiratory conditions like asthma.
• Guidance on symptom monitoring and medication use.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Severe respiratory distress or inability to speak.
• Signs of low oxygen levels such as blue lips or face.
• Sudden onset of severe symptoms requiring physical examination or emergency treatment.

What to Expect During the Telemedicine Visit

The healthcare provider will ask about your child's breathing difficulties, including when they started, what makes it better or worse, and any other symptoms like fever or cough. They may ask you to show your child's breathing pattern on camera and observe for signs like rapid breathing or use of chest muscles. Be ready to provide information about your child's medical history and any medications they are taking.

When to Use Telemedicine for Shortness of Breath

Telemedicine is often suitable for mild to moderate breathing concerns, especially if your child has a known condition like asthma. It allows quick access to advice without leaving home. If symptoms are stable and your child is alert and able to speak, a telemedicine visit can help determine next steps.

When to Seek In-Person Care Immediately

If your child shows any of the following, seek emergency care right away:

These signs require urgent physical examination and treatment.

How to Prepare for the Telemedicine Visit

Prepare a quiet, well-lit area with good internet connection. Have your child's recent medical records, medication list, and a list of symptoms ready. If possible, have a second adult present to help manage the child during the visit. Write down any questions you want to ask the healthcare provider.

After the Telemedicine Visit

Follow the healthcare provider's advice carefully. This may include monitoring your child's symptoms, giving prescribed medications, or scheduling an in-person visit if needed. If symptoms worsen or new concerning signs appear, seek emergency care promptly.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Find a quiet, well-lit space with a strong internet connection.
• Have your child's medical history and medication list ready.
• Note the onset, duration, and triggers of breathing difficulties.
• Prepare to show your child's breathing on camera if possible.
• Write down any questions or concerns to discuss with the provider.
• Have a second adult available to assist if needed.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the provider's instructions on medication and symptom monitoring.
• Schedule an in-person visit if recommended.
• Watch for worsening symptoms or new red flags.
• Seek emergency care immediately if red flags develop.
• Keep a record of symptom changes to report in follow-up visits.

FAQs

Can a telemedicine visit diagnose the cause of my child's shortness of breath?

Telemedicine can help assess symptoms and guide you on next steps, but it often cannot provide a definitive diagnosis without a physical exam and tests. If needed, the provider may recommend an in-person visit for further evaluation.

What should I do if my child's breathing worsens after the telemedicine visit?

If your child's breathing worsens or they develop any red flags like blue lips or inability to speak, seek emergency care immediately. Do not wait for another telemedicine visit in these situations.

Is it safe to manage my child's asthma symptoms through telemedicine?

For children with known asthma, telemedicine can be a useful way to adjust medications and monitor symptoms. However, if symptoms become severe or do not improve, in-person care is necessary.

How can I help my child stay calm during the telemedicine visit?

Try to keep your child comfortable and distracted with toys or videos. Having a familiar adult present and speaking calmly can help reduce anxiety during the visit.

Sources

1. Shortness of Breath in Children — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. Telemedicine: What to Expect — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
3. Asthma in Children — American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP).
4. Shortness of Breath (Dyspnea) — Mayo Clinic.

This information is for educational purposes and does not replace professional medical care. Telemedicine can guide symptom assessment but is not a substitute for in-person evaluation and emergency services when needed. Always seek immediate care if your child has severe breathing problems or other urgent symptoms.