How to Explain What You’re Feeling to a Doctor

MurmrX Health

How to Explain What You’re Feeling to a Doctor (Even If You Don’t Have the Words)

A clear, step-by-step way to describe symptoms—plus a free, colorful Medical Symptom Checklist & Health Info you can print.

📥 Download Checklist (1-Page, Color) 📥 Download 2-Page Version

Jump to:

The simple framework • Sample script • Preview: the checklist • FAQ • Downloads

The simple framework doctors love

1. Group symptoms into Physical, Emotional, Behavioral, Cognitive.
2. Timeline: when it started, how it’s changed.
3. What changed? “Before vs. after” a clear event or date.
4. Rate it (1–10) for fast severity snapshots.
5. Say the sensitive stuff—that’s often the key to better care.

Try this 1-minute script

“I’ve been feeling (symptom) for (duration). It’s affecting my ability to (work/school/home). It started after (event/trigger). I also noticed (sleep/appetite/mood changes).”

Preview: Medical Symptom Checklist & Health Info

This printable uses color-coded columns so you can circle severity/frequency and jot triggers fast.

Symptom	Severity (1–3)	Frequency (1–3)	Notes / Triggers
Fatigue	(1)(2)(3)	(1)(2)(3)	e.g., after meals, mid-afternoon
Headache	(1)(2)(3)	(1)(2)(3)	light/noise sensitivity
Shortness of breath	(1)(2)(3)	(1)(2)(3)	with stairs/exertion

FAQ

What if I can’t find the right words?

Describe the impact: what the symptom stops you from doing (sleeping, focusing, walking, socializing). Impact helps clinicians triage and treat.

Should I bring notes?

Yes. Bring this checklist and a short list of meds/allergies. It speeds up visits and reduces missed details.

Is this medical advice?

No—this is an organizational tool and communication guide. Always follow your clinician’s advice.

Downloads

• Medical Symptom Checklist & Health Info (1-Page, Color)
• Medical Symptom Checklist (2-Page)

Disclaimer: This article and checklist are educational resources and do not replace professional medical evaluation, diagnosis, or treatment.