Introduction 🤒
When you’re not feeling well in an English-speaking country, knowing how to describe your symptoms is essential. Let’s explore common expressions and vocabulary for talking about illnesses in English!
Basic Expressions 🏥
Common Illnesses
- cold / flu / fever
- stomachache / headache
- sore throat
- cough
- runny nose
- allergies
- food poisoning
- nausea
- migraine
- rash
Symptoms and Feelings
- dizzy / lightheaded
- tired / exhausted
- achy / sore
- stuffy / congested
- queasy / sick to my stomach
- chills / shivers
- sneezing
- itchy
- swollen
- feverish
Useful Expressions and Examples 🤧
When Visiting a Doctor
Example 1: “I’ve been feeling under the weather lately.”
“I’m not feeling myself today.”
When Describing Symptoms
Example 2: “I have a splitting headache.”
“My throat is killing me.”
When Talking About Recovery
Example 3: “I’m on the mend.”
“I’m feeling much better now.”
Conversation Examples 💊
At the Doctor’s Office
Doctor: “What brings you in today?”
Patient: “I’ve had a terrible cough for three days.”
Doctor: “Is it a dry cough or are you coughing up anything?”
Patient: “It’s mostly a dry cough, and my throat feels scratchy.”
Checking on a Sick Friend
A: “I heard you’re not feeling well. How are you doing?”
B: “I’m still a bit under the weather, but I’m getting better.”
A: “Have you been taking any medicine?”
B: “Yes, I started antibiotics yesterday.”
Grammar Points 📝
Using “Have” vs “Have Got”
-
American English: “I have a cold.”
-
British English: “I’ve got a cold.”
Duration Words
- Present Perfect with illnesses: “I’ve been sick for three days.” “I’ve had this cough since Monday.”
Common Mistakes ❌
Incorrect: “I have temperature.” Correct: “I have a temperature.”
Incorrect: “I am pain.” Correct: “I am in pain.”
Situational Phrases 🎯
At the Pharmacy
- “I need something for a headache.”
- “What do you recommend for a sore throat?”
- “Where can I find cold medicine?”
Calling in Sick
- “I won’t be able to make it to work today.”
- “I’m feeling under the weather.”
- “I’ve come down with something.”
Medical Vocabulary 💉
Body Parts
- throat
- chest
- stomach
- head
- nose
- ears
- joints
- muscles
Common Medications
- painkillers
- cough syrup
- decongestant
- antihistamine
- antibiotics
- throat lozenges
Time Expressions 🕒
Talking About Duration
- “I’ve been sick for a week.”
- “The symptoms started yesterday.”
- “I’m still not feeling better.”
Recovery Expressions 🌟
Getting Better
- “I’m on the road to recovery.”
- “I’m over the worst of it.”
- “I’m finally back on my feet.”
Cultural Notes 🌏
Visiting Etiquette
- “Get well soon!”
- “Hope you feel better!”
- “Take care of yourself!”
Summary 🏨
Remember these key expressions to communicate effectively about health in English!
Key Points to Remember
- Learn basic illness vocabulary
- Practice describing symptoms clearly
- Know how to ask for medicine at a pharmacy
- Understand common recovery phrases
Use these expressions to communicate clearly about your health with doctors and friends!