Phrases › At the Doctor › Ho mal di testa.

Ho mal di testa.

I have a headache.

Pronunciation

mal di TES-ta — 'testa' is 'head'. Simple two-word phrase after 'mal di'.

When to use it

One of the most common medical complaints. Use at the doctor's, pharmacy, or when explaining why you cannot do something.

What it means

'Mal di' + body part is a fixed pattern for types of pain: 'mal di testa' (headache), 'mal di schiena' (backache), 'mal di denti' (toothache), 'mal di pancia' (stomach ache), 'mal di gola' (sore throat), 'mal d'orecchi' (earache). This structure is extremely versatile and essential.

Variations

Ho un forte mal di testa.

I have a strong headache.

Add 'forte' (strong) or 'leggero' (mild) to qualify intensity

Ho l'emicrania.

I have a migraine.

'Emicrania' is a medical migraine — more severe than a regular headache

Ho mal di testa da stamattina.

I have had a headache since this morning.

Add duration with 'da' + time reference

Mini Dialogue

— Ho mal di testa molto forte da due giorni. — Ha avuto anche nausea o vomito? — Sì, ieri ho vomitato. — E la luce le dà fastidio? — Molto. Devo stare al buio. — Sembra un'emicrania. Le prescrivo un triptano.

— I have had a very strong headache for two days. — Have you also had nausea or vomiting? — Yes, yesterday I vomited. — And does light bother you? — Very much. I have to stay in the dark. — It sounds like a migraine. I will prescribe a triptan.

Cultural Note

Migraines affect about 12% of Italians. Triptans (prescription migraine medications) are widely used but require a prescription in Italy. Over-the-counter options include ibuprofen ('brufen') and paracetamol ('tachipirina'). Many Italians also use 'caffeina' (caffeine) combinations. Chronic migraine may qualify for SSN exemption from co-payments ('ticket').

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Ho bisogno di un certificato medico.

Mi gira la testa.

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