At a Doctor’s Office in Brazil: Describe Symptoms and Ask Questions
Prepare simple language to describe a symptom and its timeline during a medical visit in Brazil, then confirm that you understood the instructions.
Real Life Portuguese · 7 min read · Updated October 15, 2026
The short answer
A doctor’s office is consultório; a medical appointment is consulta. To explain a symptom, say estou com… (I have…) or sinto… (I feel…). Add when it started and whether it has changed. This language helps you communicate; a qualified health professional should assess symptoms and treatment.
Describe what you feel and when it began
Dói aqui means it hurts here. Use desde ontem (since yesterday), há três dias (for three days), or começou hoje (it started today) to give a timeline. If you do not know a medical word, point to the area and describe the sensation in simple terms.
Estou com dor de cabeça desde ontem.
I’ve had a headache since yesterday.
Sinto uma dor forte nesta região.
I feel a sharp pain in this area.
A tosse começou há três dias.
The cough began three days ago.
Ask the clinician to explain the next step
Ask for repetition or simpler wording if you missed an instruction. Você pode explicar de outro jeito? means Can you explain it another way? Write down medication names or follow-up details and confirm them with the clinician or pharmacist.
Mention allergies and current medication clearly. Use tenho alergia a… for I am allergic to… and estou tomando… for I am taking…. Share accurate information and ask a professional about any uncertainty.
Tenho alergia a este medicamento.
I’m allergic to this medication.
Estou tomando este remédio.
I’m taking this medicine.
Você pode explicar como devo tomar?
Can you explain how I should take it?
Put it into practice
State the symptom, location, and timeline in plain language, then ask the clinician to repeat or explain instructions. This vocabulary supports communication and does not replace professional medical advice.
Quick practice
Which Portuguese example matches “I’m allergic to this medication”?
Choose an answer to check yourself.
Keep practicing with the Real Life Portuguese app
Build on this guide with everyday expressions and native Brazilian audio. Choose iPhone, Android, or the web app.