Describing Headache Symptoms to the Doctor: what to say in English
Describing Symptoms
I've been having really bad headaches for the past week. It's mostly on the right side, behind my eye.
Explain the location and duration of pain.
The pain comes and goes, but when it hits, it's like a throbbing feeling. Sometimes I feel nauseous too.
Describe the pain type and additional symptoms.
I've tried taking Tylenol but it barely helps. It usually gets worse in the afternoon.
Mention ineffective treatments and timing of pain.
Doctor's Questions and Examination
How would you rate the pain on a scale of 1 to 10? And have you noticed anything that triggers it?
Rate pain and identify possible triggers.
Are you getting enough sleep? Have you been under a lot of stress lately?
Discuss sleep and stress levels.
Treatment Advice and Follow-up
I'm going to prescribe something stronger. Take it as soon as you feel a headache coming on.
Doctor prescribes stronger medication.
If it doesn't improve in two weeks, we should run some tests. I'll refer you to a specialist.
Plan tests if no improvement in two weeks.
Should I avoid screen time? I work on a computer all day and I'm wondering if that's making it worse.
Ask about reducing screen time impact.
Key words
symptom
a sign of illness
throbbing
pulsing pain
prescription
doctor's medicine order
referral
sending to a specialist
trigger
something that causes a reaction
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