When someone feels sick, gets injured, or has a health concern, they often ask for advice or suggestions. In this lesson, you’ll learn how people naturally talk about symptoms, recommend simple actions, and discuss when it’s time to see a doctor.
Pro Tip: In everyday English, people usually give advice politely. Instead of sounding like an expert, they often say “I think…”, “Maybe you should…”, or “It might be a good idea to…”.
Useful Expressions
- What’s wrong?
- How are you feeling?
- I don’t feel well.
- I have a headache.
- I have a sore throat.
- You should get some rest.
- You should drink plenty of water.
- Maybe you should see a doctor.
- Take your medicine on time.
- Try not to worry.
- It might be serious.
- You need to stay home today.
- I hope you feel better soon.
- Are you feeling any better?
- Thanks for your advice.
Questions & Answers
1. What’s wrong?
I have a terrible headache.
2. How long have you felt like this?
Since yesterday evening.
3. Did you take any medicine?
Yes, I took some after breakfast.
4. Should I go to work today?
No, you should stay home and rest.
5. What should I drink?
Drink plenty of water.
6. Should I see a doctor?
Yes, if you don’t feel better tomorrow.
7. Can I exercise today?
It’s better to rest until you recover.
8. Are you feeling better now?
A little better than yesterday.
9. What do you recommend?
I think you should get more sleep.
10. Thank you for your advice.
You’re welcome. Take care.
Conversation
Emma: You don’t look well. What’s wrong?
David: I have a sore throat and a slight fever.
Emma: Oh no. Did you take any medicine?
David: Yes, but I still feel tired.
Emma: You should drink plenty of water.
David: That’s a good idea.
Emma: Maybe you should stay home today.
David: I think you’re right.
Emma: If you don’t feel better, see a doctor.
David: I will. Thanks for your advice.
Emma: I hope you feel better soon.
David: Thank you.
Real-Life Conversation
Doctor: Good morning. How can I help you today?
Patient: Good morning, doctor. I’ve been feeling sick for two days.
Doctor: What symptoms do you have?
Patient: I have a cough, a sore throat, and a mild fever.
Doctor: Do you have a headache as well?
Patient: Yes, especially in the evening.
Doctor: Have you taken any medicine?
Patient: Only some fever medicine.
Doctor: Are you drinking enough water?
Patient: Probably not.
Doctor: You should drink more water and get plenty of rest.
Patient: Should I stay home from work?
Doctor: Yes, at least for a couple of days.
Patient: Do I need antibiotics?
Doctor: Not at the moment. It looks like a viral infection.
Patient: Is there anything else I should do?
Doctor: Eat light meals and sleep well.
Patient: Can I go for a walk?
Doctor: A short walk is fine if you feel comfortable, but don’t overdo it.
Patient: When should I come back?
Doctor: If your fever gets worse or lasts more than three days.
Patient: Thank you for your advice.
Doctor: You’re welcome. I hope you recover quickly.
Patient: Have a nice day.
Doctor: You too. Take care.
Quick Practice
A. Change the Words
Replace the words in bold with your own.
- I have a headache.
- You should drink more water.
- Maybe you should see a doctor.
- I don’t feel well.
- I need to rest today.
B. Answer the Questions
- What do you usually do when you have a fever?
- Who do you ask for medical advice?
- How often do you visit a doctor?
- What medicine do you usually take for a cold?
- What advice would you give a friend with a headache?
C. Complete the Sentences
- I don’t feel ________ today.
- You should ________ plenty of water.
- Maybe you should ________ a doctor.
- I have a ________ throat.
- I hope you feel ________ soon.
Speaking Challenge
Imagine your friend calls you because they have a fever, cough, and headache.
Speak for 1–2 minutes and include:
- Ask how they are feeling.
- Ask about their symptoms.
- Give at least three pieces of advice.
- Recommend whether they should see a doctor.
- End the conversation politely by wishing them a quick recovery.
Common Mistakes
| Incorrect | Correct |
|---|---|
| You should to see a doctor. | You should see a doctor. |
| Drink many water. | Drink plenty of water. |
| I have fever. | I have a fever. |
| Take rest. | Get some rest. |
| I am feeling not good. | I don’t feel well. |
Lesson Summary
Key Expressions
- What’s wrong?
- How are you feeling?
- I don’t feel well.
- I have a headache.
- I have a sore throat.
- You should get some rest.
- Drink plenty of water.
- Maybe you should see a doctor.
- Take your medicine on time.
- I hope you feel better soon.
- Are you feeling any better?
- Thanks for your advice.
- Take care.
- Get well soon.
