German Buddy logo

← All posts

German Phrases for the Doctor: 20 Essential Sentences

Here are the most common German phrases you need when visiting a doctor, plus a quick pronunciation tip and a practice routine you can start right now.

What are the essential German phrases for the doctor?

Memorising a short set of sentences lets you describe your problem and understand the doctor's advice without hesitation.

  • Ich habe Schmerzen. I have pain.
  • Mir ist schwindelig. I feel dizzy.
  • Ich huste seit drei Tagen. I've been coughing for three days.
  • Ich fühle mich schwach. I feel weak.
  • Ich habe Fieber. I have a fever.
  • Kann ich einen Termin bekommen? Can I get an appointment?
  • Wie lange dauert die Behandlung? How long will the treatment take?
  • Haben Sie etwas gegen Kopfschmerzen? Do you have something for headaches?
  • Ich nehme folgende Medikamente. I am taking the following medications.
  • Können Sie das bitte wiederholen? Could you please repeat that?

For more everyday medical expressions, check our free phrase list.

How do you describe symptoms in German?

Being specific helps the doctor diagnose you faster. Use the following patterns:

  1. Ich habe seit Zeitangabe Schmerzen im Körperteil. I have had pain in my body part for time period. Example: Ich habe seit zwei Tagen Schmerzen im Rücken. (I have had back pain for two days.)
  2. Mein Körperteil fühlt sich Adjektiv an. My body part feels adjective. Example: Mein Hals fühlt sich trocken an. (My throat feels dry.)
  3. Ich habe ein Adjektiv Körperteil. I have a adjective body part. Example: Ich habe einen roten Ausschlag. (I have a red rash.)

Practice these structures with the speaking prompts tool to build confidence.

How to understand the doctor's instructions and ask follow‑up questions?

Doctors often give advice that includes dosage, timing, and next steps. Here are key phrases:

  • Sie sollen Verb Zahl mal am Tag. You should verb number times a day. Example: Sie sollen die Tablette zweimal am Tag einnehmen. (You should take the tablet twice a day.)
  • Wie lange muss ich das Medikament nehmen? How long do I have to take the medication?
  • Gibt es Nebenwirkungen? Are there side effects?
  • Kann ich das Medikament mit Essen einnehmen? Can I take the medication with food?
  • Wann soll ich zur Kontrolle zurückkommen? When should I come back for a check‑up?

Use the printable worksheets to write these sentences down and rehearse them.

Practical steps to use these phrases in a real appointment

Follow this simple three‑step routine before you walk into the clinic:

  1. Listen and repeat. Open the listen‑and‑repeat tool, search for "doctor" and repeat each sentence aloud until it feels natural.
  2. Write a mini dialogue. Use the prompt generator to create a short conversation, then type it into the German Buddy app’s writing mode for instant feedback.
  3. Role‑play with voice. Switch to Conversation mode and choose a "doctor visit" scenario. Speak the sentences you prepared and let the app suggest more natural phrasing.

How to practise doctor‑related German with German Buddy

German Buddy lets you turn these phrases into active skills. Start with a free 7‑day unlimited trial, then continue with a daily allowance that never expires. Use the app’s Conversation mode to simulate a medical appointment, or the Writing mode to get corrections on your symptom description. start practising free and build confidence for your next visit.

FAQ

Do I need to know medical terminology to talk to a German doctor?

No. Basic vocabulary and clear descriptions are enough for most routine visits. If a specialist term is needed, the doctor will explain it in simpler language.

Can I use these phrases for a dentist appointment?

Yes. Many of the symptom‑describing sentences work for dental issues, and you can add specific words like Zahn (tooth) or Kiefer (jaw).

What if I don’t understand the doctor’s instructions?

Ask politely to repeat or clarify: Können Sie das bitte noch einmal erklären? (Could you please explain that again?) Using the app’s voice feedback helps you practice asking for clarification.

How often should I review these phrases?

Spaced repetition works best. Review the list once a day for a week, then every other day for the next two weeks. German Buddy’s daily practice reminders can keep you on track.