21 phrases · Levels: A1A2B1B2
Ho un appuntamento con il dottore.
I have an appointment with the doctor.
Say this at the reception desk when you arrive at a clinic or GP surgery. It confirms your visit is expected.
Mi fa male qui.
It hurts here.
Point to the affected area while saying this. Works in any medical context — doctor, pharmacist, emergency room.
Ho la febbre.
I have a fever.
The most common phrase when describing illness. Say it at the doctor's, to a pharmacist, or when calling in sick to work.
Sono allergico a questo medicinale.
I am allergic to this medicine.
Always say this before any prescription or treatment. Show the medicine package if you have it. Critical patient safety phrase.
Ho bisogno di una ricetta.
I need a prescription.
Tell the doctor at the end of a visit if you expect a prescription. Also use it at a pharmacy to explain why you cannot get a medication without visiting a doctor first.
Da quanto tempo ha questi sintomi?
How long have you had these symptoms?
A doctor will ask you this. Learn to understand it and respond with 'Da... giorni/settimane/mesi' (For... days/weeks/months).
Dove le fa più male?
Where does it hurt the most?
A doctor asks you this during physical examination. Learn to understand it and point or name the body part.
Ho difficoltà a respirare.
I have difficulty breathing.
A serious symptom — say this clearly and urgently. At a doctor's or in an emergency. Can trigger immediate priority at triage.
Sono incinta.
I am pregnant.
Essential phrase for any medical visit. Always inform doctors of pregnancy before any medication, X-ray, or procedure.
Prendo questi farmaci regolarmente.
I take these medications regularly.
Show your medication list at any medical appointment. Essential for avoiding dangerous drug interactions.
Ho bisogno di un certificato medico.
I need a medical certificate.
Needed for school absences, work sick leave, sports clubs, or official documents. Your GP issues these.
Ho mal di testa.
I have a headache.
One of the most common medical complaints. Use at the doctor's, pharmacy, or when explaining why you cannot do something.
Mi gira la testa.
I feel dizzy. / My head is spinning.
Describe dizziness or vertigo to a doctor. Can be used in everyday situations too — when feeling faint, after spinning around, or standing up too fast.
Ho la nausea.
I feel nauseous. / I have nausea.
Common symptom — report it at the doctor's or to a pharmacist. Also useful on a boat, in a car, or after eating something bad.
Quando arrivano i risultati degli esami?
When will the test results arrive?
Ask after any blood test, imaging, or other diagnostic procedure. Important for planning follow-up care.
Ha bisogno di un interprete?
Do you need an interpreter?
A doctor or receptionist might ask you this. Or you might request one yourself: 'Ho bisogno di un interprete.'
Posso avere una copia della cartella clinica?
Can I have a copy of my medical records?
Request this when changing doctors, seeking a second opinion, travelling abroad for treatment, or for insurance purposes.
Quanto devo aspettare?
How long do I have to wait?
Ask at reception after checking in, or when waiting has been unusually long. Polite and common question.
Qual è la diagnosi?
What is the diagnosis?
Ask the doctor after examination and tests. Your right as a patient to know your diagnosis clearly.
Quando devo tornare per il controllo?
When do I need to come back for the check-up?
Ask at the end of any medical visit. Important for follow-up care and knowing when to return.
Ho bisogno di un secondo parere.
I need a second opinion.
You have the right to seek a second opinion in Italy. Use this phrase when you are unsure about a diagnosis or treatment plan.