Phrases used at the doctor’s office can be confusing if you’re not familiar with them. As an English learner, you might feel overwhelmed when trying to explain your symptoms to the doctor or understand their diagnosis. That’s why we’ve put together this guide to help you navigate your next visit to the doctor’s office with confidence.
In this article, we’ll cover some of the most common phrases used at the doctor’s office, from making an appointment to describing your symptoms and understanding your diagnosis. We’ll also provide some helpful tips on how to communicate effectively with your doctor and ask any questions you may have. Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced English learner, this guide will help you feel more comfortable and confident during your next visit to the doctor.
At the Doctor’s
When You See the Doctor
It’s important to remember that you should be prepared to answer any questions the doctor may ask about your symptoms, your medical history, and your current medications. Additionally, you should be ready to discuss any concerns or questions you have about your health.
Doctors are generally very willing to help and guide you through the process, If you didn’t understand something don’t hesitate to ask for an explanation, the doctor or their team will be more than happy to help you.
Common Phrases Used At the Doctor’s
Here are some English phrases you will use when visiting a doctor.
- My ears are sore!
- My head hurts! What is wrong with me?
- I have a cold for two weeks.
- I feel sick and painful. I feel hot and cold.
- I’ve been having difficulty sleeping.
- I need a sick note.
- I’ve got a lump.
- I think I’ve pulled a muscle in my leg.
- I’m asthmatic.
- My joints are aching.
- I’ve got a temperature sore throat.
- My throat is dry! I can’t stop coughing!
- I’ve been feeling depressed.
- My legs feel weak!
- I’ve got a sprained ankle.
- I have a cold for two weeks.
- I’m diabetic.
- I’ve been having headaches.
- I cut my finger! The bleeding won’t stop.
- My skin is itchy! I can’t stop scratching!
- I’ve got a lump.
- I’m asthmatic.
- My arm is sore!
- I”ve got very little energy.
- I have a rash on my arm, and it’s very itchy.
- I feel a sharp pain when I bend my knee.
- My stomach hurts and I’ve lost my appetite.
- My neck is stiff and sore. I think I’ve pulled a muscle.
- What are my options for treatment?
Other Phrases at the Doctor’s Office
In addition to the phrases we listed in my previous response, there are several other phrases that are commonly used at the doctor’s office, depending on the situation.
Phrases Used At the Reception
- I’d like to make an appointment to see Dr. …
- I’d like to see a doctor.
- Do you have private medical insurance?
- The doctor’s ready to see you now.
- Do you have any doctors who speak …?
Phrases a Doctor Might Say
- I’m going to take your vital signs – used when the doctor or nurse is going to measure the patient’s blood pressure, heart rate, respiratory rate, and temperature.
- Please open your mouth and say ‘ah’ – used during an oral examination
- Please take a deep breath and hold it – used during a lung examination
- Please lie on your back – instruction during a pelvic or abdominal examination
- Please relax – instruction during a muscle or joint examination
- Please turn your head to the left – instruction during a neck or ear examination
- Please remove your clothes and put on this gown – instruction before a more thorough physical examination
- Please provide a urine sample – instruction during a urine test
- Please provide a stool sample – instruction during a stool test
- I’m going to listen to your heart/ lungs – instruction while performing auscultation
At the Doctor’s Conversation
- Doctor: Hi, how are you?
- Patient: Not so good.
- Doctor: What’s wrong with you?
- Patient: I have a fever and a cough. My throat is dry! I can’t stop coughing! I’m also sneezing.
- Doctor: Let me take your temperature. Hmm… 38 degrees Celsius. Do you have a headache?
- Patient: Yes, I do.
- Doctor: I think you have the flu. Take this medicine twice a day. Get some rest. Drink a lot of water.
- Patient: Thank you so much, doctor.
- Doctor: I hope you feel better!
Frequently Asked Questions
What symptoms are you experiencing?
One of the first questions a doctor will ask is about your symptoms. They will want to know what is bothering you and how long you have been experiencing it. They may ask you to describe the symptoms in detail, such as when they occur, how severe they are, and if they are constant or intermittent.
Can you describe the pain?
If you are experiencing pain, the doctor will want to know more about it. They may ask you to describe the type of pain, such as sharp, dull, or throbbing. They may also ask you to rate the pain on a scale of 1 to 10. This information can help the doctor determine the cause of the pain and how to treat it.
Have you had this issue before?
If you have had the same issue before, the doctor will want to know more about your previous experience. They may ask you when you last had the issue and how it was treated. This information can help the doctor determine if the issue is chronic or if it is a new problem.
Are you currently taking any medication?
The doctor will want to know if you are currently taking any medication, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements. This information can help the doctor determine if your symptoms are related to medication or if they are a new issue.
Can you tell me more about your lifestyle and habits?
The doctor may ask you about your lifestyle and habits, such as your diet, exercise routine, and sleep patterns. This information can help the doctor determine if your symptoms are related to your lifestyle or if they are a new issue. It is important to be honest and open with your doctor so they can provide the best possible care.
Last Updated on November 9, 2023
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