How to Prepare for a Telemedicine Visit About Tremor in Children

Audience: pediatric

Tremors in children can be concerning for parents and caregivers. A telemedicine visit allows you to discuss your child's tremor with a healthcare provider from home. During the visit, the provider will ask about the tremor's characteristics, such as when it started, how it looks, and any other symptoms your child may have. Telemedicine is often suitable for initial evaluations and follow-ups when symptoms are stable. However, if the tremor appears suddenly, worsens quickly, or is accompanied by other serious signs, in-person care is needed. Preparing for the visit by gathering information, having a quiet space, and possibly recording the tremor can help the provider understand your child's condition better. This guide explains how to prepare, what to expect, and when to seek urgent care.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Sudden onset of tremor with weakness or difficulty moving one side of the body — seek emergency care immediately.
• Tremor accompanied by confusion, difficulty speaking, or loss of consciousness — call emergency services.
• Rapid worsening of tremor or new symptoms like difficulty walking or swallowing — arrange urgent in-person evaluation.

What telemedicine can do

• Initial discussion about mild or stable tremors in children.
• Follow-up visits to monitor tremor progression or treatment response.
• Guidance on symptom management and when to seek further care.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Sudden or severe tremors with neurological symptoms requiring urgent physical examination.
• Emergency situations with loss of consciousness or severe motor impairment.
• Procedures or tests that require in-person visits, such as imaging or blood tests.

What is a Tremor?

A tremor is an involuntary shaking movement that can affect different parts of the body, such as the hands, arms, head, or legs. In children, tremors may happen for many reasons, including fatigue, anxiety, or medical conditions. Understanding the type and pattern of the tremor helps healthcare providers decide the next steps.

When to Use Telemedicine for a Child's Tremor

Telemedicine visits are useful for discussing new or ongoing tremors when there are no urgent symptoms. They allow you to share your observations and concerns with a provider without traveling. Telemedicine is often appropriate for initial assessments if the tremor is mild and stable, and for follow-up visits to monitor progress or response to treatment.

Preparing for the Telemedicine Visit

Before the visit, prepare by noting when the tremor started, how often it happens, and what triggers or improves it. Find a quiet, well-lit space for the call. If possible, record a video of the tremor to show the provider. Have a list of any medicines your child is taking and any other health concerns ready to discuss.

What to Expect During the Telemedicine Visit

The healthcare provider will ask detailed questions about your child's tremor and overall health. They may guide you through simple movements to observe the tremor better via video. Based on this, they might suggest tests, treatments, or an in-person visit if needed.

When to Seek In-Person Care Immediately

If your child has a sudden, severe tremor, weakness, difficulty speaking, confusion, or loss of balance, seek emergency medical care right away. These signs may indicate a serious condition needing urgent attention.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Note when the tremor started and how often it occurs.
• Record a short video showing the tremor if possible.
• List any other symptoms your child has experienced.
• Gather information about your child's medications and medical history.
• Find a quiet, well-lit place with good internet connection for the visit.
• Prepare questions or concerns you want to discuss with the provider.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the provider's advice on monitoring symptoms and medications.
• Schedule any recommended in-person tests or specialist visits if advised.
• Keep track of any changes in the tremor or new symptoms.
• Contact your healthcare provider if symptoms worsen or new red flags appear.
• Maintain regular follow-up appointments as recommended.

FAQs

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

Telemedicine can help the provider understand your child's tremor through history and video observation. However, some causes require in-person exams or tests for a full diagnosis.

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

If the tremor worsens or new symptoms develop, especially red flags like weakness or confusion, seek in-person medical care promptly.

Is it safe to show my child's tremor on video during the telemedicine visit?

Yes, showing the tremor on video helps the provider assess it better. Make sure the video is clear and the environment is well-lit.

Can medications cause tremors in children?

Some medications may cause tremors as a side effect. Inform your provider about all medicines your child is taking during the visit.

How long does a telemedicine visit about tremor usually take?

Telemedicine visits typically last 15 to 30 minutes, depending on the complexity of the case and questions you have.

Sources

1. Tremor in Children — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. Tremor: Overview and Types — Mayo Clinic.
3. Telemedicine: What You Need to Know — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
4. Pediatric Tremors — American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP).

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 emergency signs, seek immediate medical attention.