At the doctor's in English: describing symptoms

Two patterns cover most situations when you describe a problem to a doctor: “I have a headache.” and “My back hurts.” Add how long it has lasted, and the doctor has the first information they need.

Common symptoms

I have a headache, a stomachache, a sore throat, a cough, a fever or a temperature, a cold. I feel sick (nauseous), I feel dizzy, I'm tired all the time.

Saying where it hurts

Put the body part into “My … hurts”: “My knee hurts.”, “My ear hurts.” Pointing helps too: “It hurts here.” To describe how strong it is: “It hurts a lot.” or “It hurts a little.”

How long it has lasted

“Since” goes with a starting point and “for” with a length of time: “I've had a cough since Monday.”, “I've had a fever for two days.” A short answer is fine too: “Since yesterday.”, “For three days.”

Questions the doctor may ask

“What seems to be the problem?”, “How long have you had it?”, “Are you taking any medicine?”, “Are you allergic to anything?” If you don't understand: “Could you say that again, please?” or “Could you speak more slowly?”

Get ready beforehand

Before the appointment, write three sentences on a piece of paper: how you feel, where it hurts, and how long it has lasted. Reading them aloud once keeps your mind clear in front of the doctor. This post covers general language patterns; it is not medical advice. In a serious or urgent situation, call your local emergency number straight away.

To keep going, see English phrases for making appointments and phone calls and English at the airport: from check-in to the gate.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between “hurt” and “pain”? “Hurt” is a verb: “My back hurts.” “Pain” is a noun: “I have a pain in my back.” Both are correct and clear.

What should I say if I don't understand the doctor? Say “Could you say that again, please?” or “Could you speak more slowly?” With health, it is always right to say you didn't understand.