[English 101] DOCTOR VISIT - Describing symptoms, health issues, and medicines

Doctor Visit,

Lesson Introduction

Doctor Visit

In this lesson, you’ll learn 101 essential words and phrases to describe your symptoms, discuss health issues, and understand common medicines. By mastering these terms, you’ll be able to communicate more effectively during doctor visits, explain how you’re feeling, and follow medical advice with confidence. This vocabulary will empower you to ask questions about prescriptions, request specific tests, and talk about your recovery. It covers both physical and mental health, ensuring you can express concerns accurately, whether you’re experiencing acute symptoms, managing a chronic condition, or simply seeking routine check-ups. With these words, you’ll navigate medical interactions more smoothly, making it easier to get the help and support you need for a healthier life.

Teaching Material

Welcome to our ‘Doctor Visit’ vocabulary lesson! Here, you’ll explore practical words and phrases commonly used to describe ailments, treatment plans, and interactions with healthcare professionals.
  1. I have an appointment with the doctor at 10 AM tomorrow.
    • Appointment (noun) - A scheduled time to meet with a doctor or other professional
    • Use this to refer to fixed times for medical check-ups or consultations. It's a common term in everyday healthcare conversations.
    • "When’s your appointment?" "Tomorrow morning, so I’ll need to leave early."
  2. I go for an annual check-up to ensure everything is fine.
    • Check-up (noun) - A general medical examination to assess health
    • Use this when talking about regular or preventive doctor visits. Helps convey a focus on maintaining overall health.
    • "Why are you visiting the clinic?" "Just a routine check-up to stay on top of my health."
  3. A cough and sore throat are common symptoms of a cold.
    • Symptom (noun) - A sign or indication of a medical condition, noticed by the patient
    • Mention this when describing what you feel or observe about your health. Essential for communicating issues to a doctor.
    • "What symptoms do you have?" "I have a mild fever and fatigue."
  4. I checked my temperature and realized I have a fever.
    • Fever (noun) - A body temperature higher than the normal range
    • Use this to discuss elevated body temperature. It’s a common complaint indicating illness or infection.
    • "Are you okay?" "I’m running a slight fever, so I'm taking the day off."
  5. She took a painkiller for her severe headache.
    • Headache (noun) - Pain in the head or upper neck
    • One of the most frequent complaints. Handy for describing any form of head pain in everyday discussions.
    • "What’s bothering you?" "I can’t focus because of this headache."
  6. I felt nausea after eating too much fried food.
    • Nausea (noun) - A feeling of sickness with an inclination to vomit
    • Use this to describe queasiness or an upset stomach. Commonly mentioned during doctor visits or daily chats about feeling ill.
    • "Why do you look pale?" "I have nausea and might need to lie down."
  7. He reported dizziness whenever he stood up quickly.
    • Dizziness (noun) - A sensation of lightheadedness or feeling off-balance
    • Use it when you feel faint or unsteady. Important for explaining symptoms that may relate to blood pressure or dehydration.
    • "What’s wrong?" "I’m experiencing dizziness, so I need to sit for a moment."
  8. High blood pressure can increase the risk of heart problems.
    • Blood pressure (noun phrase) - The force of circulating blood on the walls of the arteries
    • Use it to discuss a vital sign in routine check-ups. Common in daily health tracking or serious medical concerns.
    • "What did the doctor say about your blood pressure?" "He said it's slightly elevated."
  9. A normal resting pulse can range between 60-100 beats per minute.
    • Pulse (noun) - The heartbeat rate felt in the arteries
    • Use it when discussing heart rate, especially during or after physical activity or when feeling unwell.
    • "Can you check my pulse?" "Sure, give me your wrist."
  10. I’ve caught a cold, so I’ve been sneezing nonstop.
    • Cold (noun) - A common viral infection affecting the nose and throat, usually mild
    • A simple but frequent illness. Use it in daily contexts about minor upper respiratory symptoms.
    • "Why is your voice so nasal?" "I have a cold and can’t stop sniffling."
  11. Her persistent cough kept her up all night.
    • Cough (noun/verb) - A sudden, forceful release of air from the lungs
    • Use it to talk about a common reflex to clear the airways. Common in everyday and medical discussions of respiratory issues.
    • "Are you okay?" "I’ve had this dry cough for a few days now."
  12. A sore throat often accompanies a cold or flu.
    • Sore throat (noun phrase) - Pain, irritation, or scratchiness in the throat
    • Use this phrase when describing throat discomfort. Common symptom in daily medical conversation.
    • "Why are you talking so softly?" "I have a sore throat and it hurts to speak."
  13. She developed a red rash after trying a new lotion.
    • Rash (noun) - An area of irritated or swollen skin that may be itchy or painful
    • Use it to describe an abnormal skin reaction. Doctors often ask to see it to determine causes or allergies.
    • "What’s that on your arm?" "I’m not sure—it’s a rash that started this morning."
  14. He had an allergic reaction to peanuts, resulting in hives.
    • Allergic reaction (noun phrase) - An immune system response to a substance (allergen), causing symptoms like swelling or rash
    • Use it when describing symptoms triggered by allergens. Essential for quick medical attention if severe.
    • "Why are you so red?" "I think I’m having an allergic reaction to shellfish."
  15. He complained of sharp pain in his lower back.
    • Pain (noun) - Physical discomfort caused by illness or injury
    • Use it generally or specify location for clarity. Common in any health-related conversation.
    • "Where’s the pain?" "It’s on my right side, near the ribs."
  16. I have a constant ache in my neck from poor posture.
    • Ache (noun/verb) - A continuous or dull pain in a part of the body
    • Use it for persistent or mild pains like headache or backache. It’s less intense than “pain” but still uncomfortable.
    • "Does your shoulder ache?" "Yes, it’s been bothering me all day."
  17. The doctor said her fatigue might be due to lack of proper nutrition.
    • Fatigue (noun) - Extreme tiredness or exhaustion
    • Use it to describe ongoing tiredness that doesn’t go away with simple rest. Common in both medical and casual contexts.
    • "Why are you so drained?" "I’ve been struggling with fatigue lately."
  18. He felt weakness in his legs after running a high fever.
    • Weakness (noun) - A lack of strength or firmness in the body or part of it
    • Use it to describe reduced physical power. Helps the doctor assess possible muscular or neurological issues.
    • "Any changes in your mobility?" "Yes, there’s some weakness in my arms."
  19. I picked up my prescription antibiotics from the pharmacy.
    • Prescription (noun) - A written order from a doctor for a specific medicine or treatment
    • Use it to talk about regulated medicines you obtain from a pharmacist. Essential term when dealing with doctors.
    • "Did the doctor give you a prescription?" "Yes, it’s for a new blood pressure medication."
  20. You can buy pain relievers like ibuprofen over-the-counter.
    • Over-the-counter (adjective) - Medicines available without a prescription from a doctor
    • Use it when referring to readily available drugs like cough syrup or mild painkillers. Common in everyday pharmacy visits.
    • "Did you get that medicine from the doctor?" "No, it’s over-the-counter."
  21. The doctor prescribed antibiotics to clear up the infection.
    • Antibiotics (noun (plural)) - Drugs used to treat bacterial infections
    • Use it when discussing bacterial treatments. Emphasize completing the full dose to prevent resistance.
    • "Should I stop taking antibiotics once I feel better?" "No, complete the entire course."
  22. She took a painkiller to ease her headache.
    • Painkiller (noun) - A drug or medicine for relieving pain
    • Use it to talk about medications that reduce or remove pain. Common in daily conversation about minor aches.
    • "Do you have any over-the-counter painkillers?" "Yes, check the medicine cabinet."
    • analgesic - Used in medical settings; less common in casual conversation.
  23. Follow the recommended dosage to avoid complications.
    • Dosage (noun) - The amount and frequency of a medicine to be taken
    • Use it to discuss exact instructions for taking medication. Extremely important for safety.
    • "What’s the dosage for these pills?" "Two tablets every six hours."
  24. Drowsiness is a common side effect of many cold medications.
    • Side effect (noun phrase) - An unintended result of taking a drug or undergoing treatment
    • Use it to warn or inquire about unexpected reactions. Crucial in any medication-related talk.
    • "Do these pills have any side effects?" "Yes, you might feel lightheaded."
  25. I need to stop by the pharmacy to pick up my prescription.
    • Pharmacy (noun) - A place where medicines are dispensed or sold
    • Use it for both the location and the service dispensing drugs. Common in everyday healthcare errands.
    • "Where’s the nearest pharmacy?" "Two blocks away from the clinic."
  26. Getting a flu vaccine can help prevent seasonal illness.
    • Vaccine (noun) - A substance used to stimulate the production of antibodies and provide immunity against disease
    • Use it when discussing preventive measures against infections. Commonly used in everyday health planning.
    • "Did you get your vaccine yet?" "Yes, I had it last week."
  27. He received an injection to relieve severe pain in his knee.
    • Injection (noun) - A method of delivering medicine into the body using a needle
    • Use it to describe medicines given via syringe. Important for understanding treatments like vaccines or pain relief shots.
    • "What type of injection is that?" "It’s a steroid for reducing inflammation."
  28. You should consult your doctor if symptoms worsen.
    • Consult (verb) - To seek advice or information from a professional, especially regarding health
    • Use it to show you’re getting professional guidance. Commonly used in discussions about medical or specialist referrals.
    • "Should I take these pills?" "Better consult a doctor first."
  29. The doctor began the examination by checking my heartbeat.
    • Examination (noun) - The act of inspecting or testing a patient’s body to find signs of disease
    • Use it when referencing a thorough check by a healthcare provider. Central to any doctor’s visit.
    • "How long did the examination take?" "About fifteen minutes for a basic check."
  30. He needs a diagnostic test to confirm if it’s pneumonia.
    • Diagnostic test (noun phrase) - A medical test done to identify an illness or condition
    • Use it to describe procedures like blood tests, scans, or other analyses. Essential in reaching accurate diagnoses.
    • "Why do I need blood work?" "It’s a diagnostic test to pinpoint the cause of your fever."
  31. The doctor recommended an X-ray to check for fractures.
    • X-ray (noun) - An imaging technique using radiation to see inside the body, typically bones
    • Use it when discussing imaging for bones or chest checks. Common in everyday medical procedures.
    • "Do I need an X-ray?" "Yes, to make sure there’s no broken bone."
  32. They scheduled an MRI to examine the tissues in his knee.
    • MRI (noun (abbreviation)) - Magnetic Resonance Imaging, a scan that uses magnetic fields to create detailed internal images
    • Use it for more complex imaging, often for joints or brain. Key in modern diagnostics, common in medical talk.
    • "What’s an MRI for?" "It helps see soft tissues without radiation."
  33. She had an ultrasound to check the baby’s development.
    • Ultrasound (noun) - An imaging method using high-frequency sound waves to view internal body structures
    • Use it for non-invasive scanning, often in pregnancy or organ checks. Widely recognized in daily medical contexts.
    • "Do I need an ultrasound?" "Yes, to get a clearer look at your abdomen."
  34. The doctor ordered a blood test to measure my cholesterol levels.
    • Blood test (noun phrase) - A laboratory analysis of a blood sample to check for various conditions
    • Use it to discuss routine checks or specialized testing. Very common in health screenings or diagnosis.
    • "Why am I getting a blood test?" "We need to see if there’s any deficiency or infection."
  35. The nurse will check vitals before the doctor sees you.
    • Check vitals (verb phrase) - The process of measuring essential body functions like pulse, blood pressure, temperature
    • Use it to describe the initial step in medical evaluation. Standard in any health appointment.
    • "What happens first at the clinic?" "They usually check vitals like blood pressure and heart rate."
  36. The nurse took my blood pressure and measured my temperature.
    • Nurse (noun) - A healthcare professional who cares for patients and assists doctors
    • Use it to refer to the primary caregiver who handles routine checks or procedures. Common in daily health settings.
    • "Who gave you the injection?" "The nurse in the examination room."
  37. I need to see a heart specialist for my chest pains.
    • Specialist (noun) - A doctor who focuses on a particular area of medicine
    • Use it when discussing advanced or specific treatments. Common step after a general practitioner’s referral.
    • "Who will treat your back issues?" "The doctor referred me to a spine specialist."
  38. Your general practitioner can handle most common illnesses.
    • General practitioner (noun phrase) - A doctor who provides primary care for general health issues
    • Use it to describe a family or primary care doctor. They handle a broad range of health concerns.
    • "Who’s your primary doctor?" "I see a general practitioner for regular check-ups."
    • GP - More informal or commonly used in casual talk, especially in British English.
  39. He was taken to the emergency room after a bad fall.
    • Emergency room (noun phrase) - A hospital department for urgent treatment of serious injuries or illnesses
    • Use this when urgent care is needed. Common in daily references to critical, after-hours medical situations.
    • "Where should I go if my pain gets worse at night?" "Head to the emergency room immediately."
  40. He stayed in the hospital overnight for observation.
    • Hospital (noun) - A medical institution that provides patient treatment with specialized staff and equipment
    • Use it to refer to large healthcare facilities for serious conditions or surgeries. Common in everyday health references.
    • "Where did your surgery take place?" "At the local hospital downtown."
  41. I visited the local clinic for a quick check-up.
    • Clinic (noun) - A facility for outpatient medical treatment or advice
    • Use it for smaller medical centers offering services like check-ups, minor procedures, or routine care. Very common.
    • "Is the clinic open on weekends?" "Yes, but with limited hours."
  42. My GP gave me a specialist referral for my chronic back pain.
    • Specialist referral (noun phrase) - A recommendation by one doctor for a patient to see a specialized doctor
    • Use this when you need advanced care beyond a general doctor’s scope. Often needed for insurance coverage, too.
    • "Did your doctor handle your issue?" "He gave me a specialist referral instead."
  43. The doctor asked about my family’s medical history to check for hereditary conditions.
    • Medical history (noun phrase) - Record of past illnesses, treatments, and other health details
    • Use it to provide background info to a doctor. Commonly reviewed before diagnosing or prescribing.
    • "Do you have any known allergies?" "Yes, it’s in my medical history."
  44. The doctor asked about the symptom onset to help diagnose the issue.
    • Symptom onset (noun phrase) - The time or period when symptoms first started to appear
    • Use this to specify exactly when you began feeling ill. Important detail for accurate diagnosis.
    • "When did your fever start?" "The symptom onset was last night."
  45. Diabetes is a chronic condition requiring constant monitoring.
    • Chronic condition (noun phrase) - A long-lasting health issue that can be controlled but not always cured
    • Use it to refer to ongoing health problems like asthma or hypertension. Common in extended or frequent care scenarios.
    • "Do you have any chronic conditions?" "Yes, I’ve been managing asthma for years."
  46. I stayed home with the flu and rested for a few days.
    • Flu (noun) - Short for influenza, a contagious viral infection causing fever, aches, and weakness
    • Use it for more severe symptoms than a common cold. Common in daily talk about seasonal illnesses.
    • "Are you sure it’s just a cold?" "I think it’s the flu—I have chills and body aches."
  47. He developed an infection in the cut on his hand.
    • Infection (noun) - Invasion and multiplication of microorganisms in body tissues, causing illness
    • Use it for issues involving bacteria, viruses, or fungi. Often needs antibiotic or antiviral treatment depending on cause.
    • "Why is it so red?" "It might be an infection; I should see a doctor."
  48. The flu virus spreads easily through coughing and sneezing.
    • Virus (noun) - A small infectious agent that can replicate only inside living cells, causing various diseases
    • Use it to discuss illnesses like colds, flu, or more serious viral infections. Common in everyday medical talk.
    • "Is it bacterial?" "No, it’s a virus, so antibiotics won’t help."
  49. Some bacteria are beneficial, while others can make us sick.
    • Bacteria (noun) - Microorganisms that can be harmless or cause infections in the body
    • Use it to discuss infections that respond to antibiotics. Key in understanding why certain drugs are prescribed.
    • "Why do I need antibiotics?" "Because the tests show a bacterial infection."
  50. Icing the ankle can help reduce inflammation after a sprain.
    • Inflammation (noun) - Swelling or redness in response to injury or infection
    • Use it to describe painful, red, or swollen tissue. Commonly addressed with rest, ice, or medication.
    • "Why’s my knee so swollen?" "It’s likely inflammation from overuse."
  51. Taking too many painkillers can lead to an accidental overdose.
    • Overdose (noun) - An excessive and dangerous dose of a drug
    • Use it to discuss taking unsafe amounts of medication. A serious matter needing immediate medical attention.
    • "How much did you take?" "I might have overdosed—let’s call for help."
  52. She had a mild skin reaction to the new ointment.
    • Reaction (noun) - A response, often negative, to a drug or treatment
    • Use it broadly for any negative bodily response. Helps doctors gauge medication tolerance or allergies.
    • "Are you okay?" "I’m having a weird reaction to this antibiotic."
  53. The swelling in my ankle is worse after walking all day.
    • Swelling (noun) - An enlargement of body tissues due to inflammation or fluid accumulation
    • Use it to describe a body part that’s enlarged. Often requires rest or medical attention if severe.
    • "Why’s your wrist puffy?" "The swelling started after I fell down."
  54. I got a bruise on my arm from bumping into the table.
    • Bruise (noun) - A skin injury where blood vessels are damaged, causing discoloration
    • Use it to describe minor trauma to soft tissue. Common in daily life, might not need medical care unless severe.
    • "What’s that purple mark?" "Just a bruise from playing basketball."
  55. The X-ray revealed a small fracture in her wrist.
    • Fracture (noun) - A break in a bone
    • Use it for broken bones, from tiny cracks to complete breaks. Often treated with casts or splints.
    • "Is your arm okay?" "I have a hairline fracture and need a cast."
  56. He couldn’t walk properly due to a severe ankle sprain.
    • Sprain (noun) - An injury to a ligament caused by twisting or overstretching a joint
    • Use it to describe ligament injury. Requires rest, ice, compression, elevation (RICE) in many cases.
    • "Did you break your foot?" "No, just a sprain, but it still hurts."
  57. The doctor scheduled a follow-up to monitor my progress.
    • Follow-up (noun) - An additional appointment or check after initial treatment or diagnosis
    • Use it to describe ongoing monitoring or repeat consultations. Common after surgeries or treatments.
    • "Do you need another visit?" "Yes, a follow-up next week to see if I’m healing."
  58. Full recovery may take a few weeks, according to the doctor.
    • Recovery (noun) - The process of returning to a normal state of health or strength
    • Use it when discussing how long you need to rest and heal. Important in daily talk about health improvements.
    • "How long is your recovery period?" "About two weeks, then I can start light exercises."
  59. The physician advised me to rest and avoid strenuous exercise.
    • Rest (verb/noun) - To stop engaging in activity in order to recover strength
    • Use it to emphasize the importance of taking a break or sleeping enough. A key step in many healing processes.
    • "Why aren't you at work?" "I need to rest for a couple of days."
  60. Drink plenty of fluids to recover from a fever.
    • Fluids (noun (plural)) - Liquids that help maintain hydration, such as water or electrolyte drinks
    • Use it to remind about hydration, crucial in daily health. Common in advice for colds, flu, or workouts.
    • "You seem dehydrated." "I know, I need more fluids today."
  61. A balanced diet can speed up recovery and strengthen immunity.
    • Balanced diet (noun phrase) - Eating a variety of foods in the right proportions to maintain health
    • Use this to describe consistent, healthy eating habits. Often recommended by doctors for prevention and wellness.
    • "Why do I keep getting sick?" "Try exercising and maintaining a balanced diet."
  62. She received treatment for her sprained wrist, including a brace and rest.
    • Treatment (noun) - Medical care given to a patient for an illness or injury
    • Use it to talk about any remedial plan. Central to health discussions post-diagnosis.
    • "How’s your treatment going?" "Well, I just started physical therapy."
  63. Some diseases are hard to cure, requiring long-term management.
    • Cure (noun/verb) - A method or medicine that restores good health
    • Use it when discussing the ultimate relief from an illness. Often contrasted with managing symptoms or chronic care.
    • "Is there a cure for this condition?" "Not yet, but there are treatments to control it."
  64. Proper rest and medication speed up healing.
    • Healing (noun/verb (gerund)) - The process of becoming healthy again
    • Use it for physical or emotional recovery. Common in everyday talk about the body or mind mending.
    • "How’s your wound?" "It’s healing well, no infection so far."
  65. The doctor gave a positive prognosis, expecting a full recovery.
    • Prognosis (noun) - A medical opinion on the likely outcome of an illness or injury
    • Use it when discussing future expectations of a condition. A slightly more formal term common in medical settings.
    • "What’s the prognosis for your knee injury?" "The doctor says it’ll heal in a few months."
  66. Her heart condition requires regular check-ups.
    • Condition (noun) - The state of a patient’s health, often referring to a specific illness
    • Use it to describe your overall or specific health issue. Very broad and flexible for daily or professional usage.
    • "How’s your condition now?" "Stable, but I need to monitor it closely."
  67. The consultation fee at this clinic is quite affordable.
    • Consultation fee (noun phrase) - The charge for a doctor’s advice or examination
    • Use it when talking about medical expenses. Commonly asked about before or after a visit.
    • "How much do I owe?" "The consultation fee is fifty dollars."
  68. On a pain scale of 1 to 10, she rated her back pain as 7.
    • Pain scale (noun phrase) - A rating system (usually 0–10) for the intensity of pain
    • Use it to quantify pain level for clarity. Helpful in guiding medical decisions.
    • "How bad is it on the pain scale?" "Probably a 5 right now."
  69. He checks his blood sugar daily to manage his diabetes.
    • Blood sugar (noun phrase) - The concentration of glucose in the blood, important for diabetes management
    • Use it for discussions on diabetes or energy levels. Common in routine health monitoring.
    • "Do you track your blood sugar?" "Yes, I use a home monitor."
  70. High cholesterol increases the risk of heart disease.
    • Cholesterol (noun) - A fatty substance in blood that can affect heart health
    • Use it in context of heart health or diet changes. Commonly monitored in routine blood tests.
    • "Is your cholesterol level okay?" "It’s a bit high, so I’m on a special diet."
  71. The nurse took my vital signs before the doctor arrived.
    • Vital signs (noun (plural)) - Measurements of body’s basic functions, usually pulse, respiration, temperature, and blood pressure
    • Use it to refer collectively to key health indicators. Standard in any medical check-in.
    • "What are your vital signs like today?" "Blood pressure is normal, temperature is slightly elevated."
  72. The doctor used a suture to close the cut on his forehead.
    • Suture (noun) - A stitch or row of stitches holding together the edges of a wound
    • Use it in more formal or medical contexts for wound closure. You might also hear 'stitches' in casual speech.
    • "Did they use glue or sutures?" "They stitched it up with sutures."
  73. The nurse cleaned and dressed the wound carefully.
    • Wound (noun) - An injury to living tissue, typically involving a cut or break in the skin
    • Use it to describe cuts, scrapes, or open injuries. Important in first aid and medical scenarios.
    • "How bad is your wound?" "Not too deep, but it needs a bandage."
  74. She wrapped a bandage around his hand to stop the bleeding.
    • Bandage (noun) - A strip of fabric or material used to protect or cover a wound
    • Use it for covering wounds to promote healing and prevent infection. Common in everyday first aid.
    • "Do you need a bandage?" "Yes, I scraped my knee pretty badly."
  75. The nurse asked me to roll up my sleeve for the injection site on my arm.
    • Injection site (noun phrase) - The specific location on the body where an injection is administered
    • Use it to refer to the spot on your body where a shot is given. Often relevant for post-vaccine care.
    • "Why is my arm sore?" "Could be tenderness at the injection site."
  76. He felt mild discomfort after the procedure.
    • Discomfort (noun) - Slight pain or unease, less severe than serious pain
    • Use it for mild or moderate unease. It's a polite term for lesser pain or annoyance.
    • "How do you feel?" "Just some discomfort, but it’s manageable."
  77. He took ibuprofen to reduce swelling in his sprained ankle.
    • Ibuprofen (noun) - A common over-the-counter anti-inflammatory pain reliever
    • Use it when discussing non-prescription pain relief. Very common in daily life, especially for minor aches.
    • "What painkiller did you take?" "Just some ibuprofen."
  78. Overusing antibiotics can lead to antibiotic resistance.
    • Antibiotic resistance (noun phrase) - When bacteria evolve to survive despite antibiotic treatment
    • Use it to discuss why doctors limit antibiotic prescriptions. Important in everyday health awareness.
    • "Why won’t these meds work?" "The bacteria might have developed antibiotic resistance."
  79. He started physical therapy sessions after knee surgery.
    • Physical therapy (noun phrase) - Rehabilitation using exercises and treatments to restore movement and function
    • Use it to describe rehab procedures for injuries or chronic conditions. Common in daily talk about healing regimens.
    • "How’s your recovery going?" "I’m doing physical therapy twice a week."
  80. She booked physiotherapy to strengthen her shoulder muscles.
    • Physiotherapy (noun) - Another term for physical therapy, focusing on movement and function restoration
    • Synonymous with physical therapy, used in many regions. Helps with post-injury or post-surgery recovery.
    • "Is physiotherapy helping?" "Yes, I’m gaining better range of motion."
  81. He needed stitches for the deep cut on his thigh.
    • Stitches (noun (plural)) - Loops of thread used to close a wound, similar to sutures but more casual in usage
    • Use it more casually than 'suture.' Common in everyday discussions about wound closure.
    • "Do you still have your stitches?" "They’ll remove them next week."
  82. She experiences breakthrough pain even though she’s on medication.
    • Breakthrough pain (noun phrase) - Intense pain that occurs despite ongoing pain management
    • Use it when someone has spikes of severe pain beyond controlled levels. Common in discussions about chronic conditions.
    • "Why does the pain suddenly flare up?" "It’s called breakthrough pain, and it can happen anytime."
  83. He felt back pain from overexertion at the gym.
    • Overexertion (noun) - Excessive effort or strain that can lead to fatigue or injury
    • Use it to describe pushing physical limits too far. Common in daily talk about exercise or labor-induced strain.
    • "Why are you limping?" "Probably overexertion—I pushed too hard today."
  84. The nurse will check heart rate during the initial evaluation.
    • Check heart rate (verb phrase) - Measuring the pulse to assess beats per minute
    • Use it to discuss monitoring your pulse, especially during fitness or health checks. Helps track cardiovascular wellbeing.
    • "Should I check my heart rate while exercising?" "Yes, to ensure you’re not overdoing it."
  85. A CT scan provides detailed images of bones and soft tissues.
    • CT scan (noun) - Computed Tomography scan, an imaging method using x-rays from different angles
    • Use it for thorough imaging of internal organs or injuries. Common step in advanced diagnostic procedures.
    • "Why do I need a CT scan?" "It helps detect abnormalities that an X-ray might miss."
  86. He sought help for depression after feeling consistently low for months.
    • Depression (noun) - A common mental disorder characterized by persistent sadness and loss of interest
    • Use it to discuss mental health conditions. Important in everyday conversations and professional help contexts.
    • "How are you feeling lately?" "I think I might have depression; I’ll talk to a counselor."
  87. She experiences anxiety whenever she’s in large crowds.
    • Anxiety (noun) - A mental health condition involving constant worry or fear
    • Use it to describe feelings of nervousness or stress. Commonly acknowledged and treated in modern healthcare.
    • "Why are you so tense?" "I have anxiety, especially in social situations."
  88. Taking care of your mental health is just as crucial as physical health.
    • Mental health (noun phrase) - A person’s condition regarding psychological and emotional well-being
    • Use it to emphasize psychological well-being. Increasingly important in holistic healthcare conversations.
    • "How’s your mental health these days?" "I’ve been seeing a therapist to cope better."
  89. He has chronic pain in his lower back that flares up daily.
    • Chronic pain (noun phrase) - Persistent pain lasting weeks to years
    • Use it to describe ongoing discomfort beyond the usual healing time. Common in daily or medical contexts.
    • "Does the discomfort come and go?" "No, it’s chronic pain that won’t fully go away."
  90. The doctor recommended lifestyle changes to manage her high blood pressure.
    • Lifestyle changes (noun phrase) - Adjustments in daily habits (diet, exercise, sleep) to improve health
    • Use it to refer to improving habits that affect long-term health. Often recommended by doctors for prevention or recovery.
    • "How do I lower my cholesterol?" "Try some lifestyle changes like cutting back on fried food."
  91. He made a specialist appointment to address his thyroid issues.
    • Specialist appointment (noun phrase) - A scheduled visit with a doctor who focuses on a specific medical field
    • Use this when you have to see a doctor with advanced expertise in a particular area. Common after a GP referral.
    • "Do you need another check-up?" "Yes, I have a specialist appointment next Tuesday."
  92. They had to do an appointment reschedule because the doctor was out sick.
    • Appointment reschedule (noun phrase) - Changing the date or time of a planned medical visit
    • Use it for shifting your check-up date. Routine in busy schedules or unexpected doctor unavailability.
    • "Didn’t you have a visit today?" "It’s now on Thursday—appointment reschedule due to a conflict."
  93. Painkillers offer symptom relief but won’t cure the root cause.
    • Symptom relief (noun phrase) - Reduction or easing of discomfort caused by an illness
    • Use it when discussing short-term management of pain or other issues. Highlights improvement but not necessarily a cure.
    • "Are you feeling better?" "Yes, the medicine gave me symptom relief for now."
  94. The doctor estimates a healing time of about six weeks for the broken arm.
    • Healing time (noun phrase) - The duration required for a wound or condition to heal
    • Use it to plan or understand the recovery period. Common in everyday talk post-injury or surgery.
    • "How long before I can run again?" "Your healing time is roughly eight weeks."
  95. My recovery plan includes weekly physical therapy and rest days.
    • Recovery plan (noun phrase) - A structured approach or schedule to regain health after illness or injury
    • Use it to describe organized steps toward better health. Often includes rest, exercises, follow-ups, and diet changes.
    • "How will you get back to normal?" "I have a recovery plan from my therapist."
  96. A yearly physical exam can catch potential issues early.
    • Physical exam (noun phrase) - A thorough check by a medical professional to assess overall health
    • Use it for comprehensive body checks, typically done annually. Common in everyday healthcare maintenance.
    • "Did you have a physical exam recently?" "Yes, the doctor checked my heart, lungs, and reflexes."
  97. Always seek medical advice before starting a new diet or exercise regime.
    • Medical advice (noun phrase) - Guidance provided by a healthcare professional regarding health or treatment
    • Use it to remind that professionals should guide health decisions. A frequent disclaimer in health discussions.
    • "Can I just skip antibiotics?" "Better follow the doctor’s medical advice."
  98. For mild acidity, an over-the-counter remedy might suffice.
    • Over-the-counter remedy (noun phrase) - A non-prescription solution or treatment for minor health problems
    • Use this for mild issues manageable with non-prescription meds. Commonly advised in everyday health contexts.
    • "What if my throat is scratchy?" "Try an over-the-counter remedy like lozenges."
  99. Some antihistamines cause drowsiness, so be careful driving.
    • Drowsiness (noun) - A feeling of sleepiness or lethargy, often a side effect of some medications
    • Use it to describe a side effect of meds or general fatigue. Common in casual discussion about feeling sleepy or drugged.
    • "You look tired." "It’s the drowsiness from my allergy pills."
  100. I keep my consultation notes in a folder for reference.
    • Consultation note (noun phrase) - A written summary or record of a discussion with a medical professional
    • Use it to keep track of doctor’s instructions or diagnoses. Good for personal record-keeping and clarity.
    • "Do you remember the dosage?" "Yes, it’s written in the consultation note."
  101. Health insurance helped cover most of my hospital bill.
    • Health insurance (noun phrase) - A coverage plan that pays or subsidizes medical expenses
    • Use it to discuss cost coverage, essential in many countries. Common daily talk about finances of healthcare.
    • "Is your treatment expensive?" "Thankfully, my health insurance covers a big portion."

Lesson Summary

By learning these 101 terms, you will enhance your ability to describe everything from mild discomforts to more significant health challenges. Whether you need to speak about a persistent headache, discuss treatment options, or follow up on lab results, these words give you the power to share your concerns clearly. You’ll pick up crucial phrases like “appointment reschedule” and “specialist referral,” ensuring you can manage your medical schedule with ease. Words like “dosage,” “side effect,” and “over-the-counter remedy” help you handle conversations about medication. Additionally, you’ll be able to communicate critical information about your symptoms, such as “nausea,” “fatigue,” and “chronic pain,” which is vital when consulting doctors. Armed with this comprehensive vocabulary, you’ll feel better prepared and more confident navigating the healthcare system, discussing your health status, and working toward a successful recovery.

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