How to prepare for a telemedicine visit about Wheezing in Child - Triage

Audience: pediatric

Wheezing in a child can be concerning and may indicate various health issues, from mild to serious. Telemedicine visits offer a convenient way to discuss your child's symptoms with a healthcare provider without leaving home. During the visit, you can describe the wheezing and other symptoms, share your child's medical history, and get advice on next steps. However, some situations require immediate in-person care. Preparing for the telemedicine visit helps the provider understand your child's condition better and guide you safely. This guide explains how to prepare, what telemedicine can and cannot do for wheezing in children, warning signs to watch for, and what to expect after the visit.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Child has difficulty breathing, such as rapid breathing, chest retractions, or nasal flaring — seek emergency care immediately.
• Child is turning blue around lips or face — call emergency services right away.
• Child is very sleepy, unresponsive, or unable to speak or cry — get urgent medical help immediately.

What telemedicine can do

• Initial assessment of mild wheezing symptoms
• Review of medical history related to breathing problems
• Guidance on symptom management and medication use
• Advice on when to seek in-person care

What telemedicine cannot do

• Emergency situations with severe breathing difficulty
• Physical examination requiring lung auscultation
• Administration of emergency treatments like nebulizers or oxygen
• Diagnosis requiring imaging or laboratory tests

What is Wheezing in Children?

Wheezing is a high-pitched whistling sound made when a child breathes out. It happens when the airways are narrowed or blocked. Common causes include asthma, infections, allergies, or inhaling something accidentally. Wheezing can come with cough, difficulty breathing, or chest tightness. Understanding these symptoms helps caregivers communicate clearly during a telemedicine visit.

When to Use Telemedicine for Wheezing

Telemedicine can be useful for initial evaluation if your child is wheezing but is generally alert, breathing comfortably, and able to speak or play. It allows you to describe symptoms, show the child’s breathing pattern, and discuss medical history. The provider can offer advice on managing mild symptoms and decide if further in-person care is needed.

Preparing for Your Telemedicine Visit

To prepare, find a quiet, well-lit space with good internet or phone connection. Have your child's medical records, a list of current medications, and notes on symptoms ready. Be ready to describe when the wheezing started, how often it happens, and any triggers you have noticed. If possible, have someone assist you to observe and report on your child's breathing.

What Telemedicine Can and Cannot Do

Telemedicine CAN:

Telemedicine CANNOT:

After Your Telemedicine Visit

Follow the provider’s advice carefully. This may include monitoring symptoms, using prescribed medications, or seeking in-person care. Keep a record of any changes in your child's condition. If symptoms worsen or new warning signs appear, seek emergency care immediately.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Ensure a stable internet or phone connection.
• Choose a quiet, well-lit area for the visit.
• Have your child's medical history and medication list ready.
• Note the onset, frequency, and triggers of wheezing.
• Be prepared to describe any other symptoms like cough or fever.
• Have a second adult available to assist if possible.

After your tele-visit

• Follow any medication or care instructions given by the provider.
• Monitor your child's breathing and overall condition closely.
• Keep track of any new or worsening symptoms.
• Schedule follow-up appointments if recommended.
• Seek immediate in-person care if red flag symptoms appear.

FAQs

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

Telemedicine can help assess symptoms and guide you, but it often cannot provide a definitive diagnosis without a physical exam or tests. Your provider may recommend in-person evaluation if needed.

What should I do if my child’s wheezing gets worse after the telemedicine visit?

If your child’s breathing worsens, shows signs of distress, or develops any red flag symptoms, seek emergency medical care immediately.

Is it safe to manage wheezing at home after a telemedicine visit?

For mild symptoms, following your provider’s advice is often safe. However, always watch for warning signs and do not hesitate to get urgent care if your child’s condition changes.

How can I help my child breathe easier at home?

Keep your child calm and upright, avoid known triggers, and use any prescribed medications as directed. Humidified air may help but avoid smoke or irritants.

Sources

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

This telemedicine guidance is for educational and triage purposes only. It is not a substitute for in-person medical care or emergency services. If your child shows any emergency symptoms or if you are concerned about their health, seek immediate medical attention.