Red flags & when to go in person for Weakness (New) - Triage

Audience: pediatric

New weakness in a child can be concerning and may have many causes, ranging from mild to serious. Telemedicine can help assess some cases safely by gathering history and observing the child. However, certain signs require urgent in-person evaluation to prevent complications. This guide helps parents and caregivers recognize red flags and understand when to seek face-to-face care. It also explains what telemedicine can and cannot do for new weakness in children, how to prepare for a virtual visit, and what to expect afterward. Early recognition and timely care are important to ensure the best outcomes for your child.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Sudden weakness on one side of the body or face — seek emergency care immediately.
• Difficulty breathing, swallowing, or speaking — go to emergency services right away.
• Loss of consciousness or seizures accompanying weakness — call emergency services promptly.

What telemedicine can do

• Initial assessment of mild or gradual weakness.
• Gathering detailed symptom history and visual observation of movements.
• Providing guidance on monitoring symptoms and when to seek in-person care.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Emergency evaluation of sudden or severe weakness with red flags.
• Physical examination requiring hands-on assessment or neurological testing.
• Diagnostic tests such as imaging or blood work that require in-person visits.

Understanding New Weakness in Children

New weakness means your child is having trouble moving a part of their body or feels unusually weak. It can affect arms, legs, or the whole body. Causes vary widely, including infections, injuries, or neurological problems. Sometimes weakness develops quickly and may be serious, so paying attention to other symptoms is important.

When to Seek In-Person Care Immediately

Some signs with new weakness need urgent medical attention. These include:

If you notice these, call emergency services or go to the nearest emergency room right away.

How Telemedicine Can Help

Telemedicine allows healthcare providers to ask questions, observe your child’s movements, and guide you through simple tests. It can help identify if the weakness seems mild or related to common causes like viral illnesses. Providers can also advise if further in-person evaluation is needed based on what they learn during the visit.

Limitations of Telemedicine for New Weakness

Some evaluations require hands-on physical exams, imaging, or lab tests that cannot be done remotely. Telemedicine cannot replace emergency care when serious symptoms are present. If your child’s condition worsens or new concerning signs develop after a virtual visit, seek in-person care promptly.

Preparing for a Telemedicine Visit

Before your appointment:

After the Telemedicine Visit

Follow the provider’s advice carefully. This may include:

Keep emergency numbers handy and do not hesitate to seek urgent care if needed.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Write down when the weakness started and how it has changed.
• Note any other symptoms like fever, pain, or difficulty speaking.
• Ensure a quiet, well-lit space for the video call.
• Have a family member assist with showing your child’s movements on camera.
• Prepare a list of questions or concerns to discuss with the provider.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the provider’s instructions on symptom monitoring.
• Schedule follow-up appointments if recommended.
• Seek in-person care immediately if red flags develop.
• Administer any prescribed treatments as directed.
• Keep emergency contact numbers accessible.

FAQs

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

Telemedicine can help your provider understand symptoms and decide if your child needs in-person tests or treatment. However, it often cannot provide a definitive diagnosis without physical exams or tests done in person.

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

If your child's weakness worsens or new concerning symptoms appear, such as difficulty breathing or sudden weakness on one side, seek emergency medical care immediately.

Is new weakness in a child always serious?

Not always. Some causes are mild and improve on their own, but new weakness can sometimes signal serious problems. It's important to watch for red flags and get medical advice promptly.

How can I help my child during a telemedicine visit?

Help your child follow the provider’s instructions, show different movements on camera, and answer questions about symptoms. Having another adult assist can also be helpful.

Sources

1. Weakness in Children — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. Neurological Examination of the Child — American Academy of Pediatrics.
3. When to Seek Emergency Care for Children — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
4. Telemedicine Guidance for Pediatric Care — National Library of Medicine.

This telemedicine guidance is for educational and triage purposes only and is not a substitute for in-person medical evaluation and care. If your child has severe symptoms or red flags, seek emergency medical attention immediately.