How to prepare for a telemedicine visit about Swollen Lymph Nodes

Audience: adult

Swollen lymph nodes can be a sign of infection or other health issues. Preparing for a telemedicine visit about swollen lymph nodes helps you get the most from your appointment. During the visit, your healthcare provider will ask about your symptoms, medical history, and may guide you through examining the swollen areas. Telemedicine is useful for discussing symptoms, getting advice, and deciding if you need in-person care. However, some cases require physical exams or tests that cannot be done remotely. Knowing when to seek urgent care is important, especially if you have severe pain, fever, or other warning signs. This guide helps you prepare for your telemedicine visit, understand what telemedicine can and cannot do, and know the next steps after your appointment.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Swollen lymph nodes accompanied by high fever (above 39°C or 102°F) — seek urgent in-person care.
• Rapidly growing or very hard lymph nodes that do not improve over a few days — see a healthcare provider in person.
• Difficulty breathing, swallowing, or severe pain near swollen lymph nodes — get emergency medical help immediately.

What telemedicine can do

• Initial symptom discussion and history taking.
• Visual inspection of visible swelling via video.
• Guidance on self-examination of lymph nodes.
• Advice on symptom management and monitoring.
• Determining the need for in-person evaluation or testing.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Physical palpation and detailed examination of lymph nodes.
• Performing diagnostic tests such as blood tests or imaging.
• Administering treatments that require physical presence.
• Evaluating severe or rapidly worsening symptoms requiring urgent care.

What Are Swollen Lymph Nodes?

Lymph nodes are small, bean-shaped glands that help your body fight infection. They can swell when your body is fighting germs or other problems. Swollen lymph nodes often appear in the neck, under the arms, or in the groin. They may feel tender or firm but usually are not painful.

When to Use Telemedicine for Swollen Lymph Nodes

Telemedicine lets you talk to a healthcare provider from home using video or phone. It is helpful if your swollen lymph nodes are new, mild, or you want advice on symptoms. Your provider can ask questions, look at visible swelling through video, and suggest next steps. Telemedicine is not suitable if you have severe symptoms or need tests that require a visit.

Preparing for Your Telemedicine Visit

Before your appointment, write down your symptoms, including when swelling started and any pain or fever. Have a list of your current medicines and health conditions ready. Find a quiet, well-lit space with good internet or phone connection. Be ready to show the swollen areas on camera if possible.

What to Expect During the Visit

Your provider will ask about your symptoms and medical history. They may guide you to gently feel the swollen lymph nodes yourself. Based on this, they will advise if you need tests, medicines, or an in-person exam. They will also tell you what signs to watch for and when to seek urgent care.

After Your Telemedicine Visit

Follow the advice given by your provider. This may include monitoring symptoms, taking medications, or scheduling an in-person visit. If symptoms worsen or new symptoms appear, seek medical care promptly. Keep notes of any changes to share with your provider later.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Find a quiet, well-lit area with a good internet or phone connection.
• List your symptoms: when swelling started, pain, fever, or other signs.
• Prepare a list of current medications and health conditions.
• Have a way to show swollen areas on camera if using video.
• Write down any questions or concerns you want to discuss.
• Ensure your device is charged or plugged in before the visit.

After your tele-visit

• Follow your provider’s advice on medications or symptom monitoring.
• Schedule any recommended in-person tests or visits promptly.
• Watch for red flag symptoms and seek urgent care if they occur.
• Keep a symptom diary to track changes and share updates with your provider.
• Contact your healthcare provider if symptoms worsen or new issues arise.

FAQs

Can telemedicine diagnose the cause of swollen lymph nodes?

Telemedicine can help your provider understand your symptoms and decide if further testing is needed, but it often cannot provide a definitive diagnosis without physical exams or tests.

What should I do if my swollen lymph nodes get worse after the telemedicine visit?

If swelling worsens, or if you develop high fever, severe pain, or difficulty breathing, seek in-person medical care promptly.

Can I show my swollen lymph nodes on video during the visit?

Yes, showing the swollen areas on camera can help your provider assess visible signs and guide your self-examination.

Are swollen lymph nodes always a sign of serious illness?

No, swollen lymph nodes often occur due to common infections and usually improve on their own. However, persistent or severe swelling should be evaluated by a healthcare provider.

Sources

1. Swollen Lymph Nodes — MedlinePlus | U.S. National Library of Medicine / National Institutes of Health.
2. Lymphadenopathy — Mayo Clinic.
3. Lymphadenopathy: Causes and Evaluation — National Library of Medicine.
4. When to Seek Medical Care for Swollen Lymph Nodes — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

This telemedicine guidance is for educational and informational purposes only and is not a substitute for in-person medical care. If you have severe symptoms or concerns, please seek immediate medical attention or consult a healthcare provider in person.