Most patients do not use technical terms to describe how they feel. Instead they use layman language (normal, non-medical terms) and idioms, especially when they feel very well or very poorly. Some common idioms include:
killing me = severe pain
stiff as a board = joint spasm or muscle stiffness
out of sorts = not feeling right e.g. vague or mild pain, spasm, nausea or so on
off my food = no appetite
skin and bones = very thin
black out = to lose consciousness; to faint
fill a prescription = get medication the doctor has from the pharmacy
get out and about = go out to shop and meet friends
run in the family = a condition common in a family
take it easy = not work too hard; go at a slower pace and relax more
on the go = be very active
How the patient is feeling
Instructions: Read what the patients or health professionals say, and choose the answer that best summarises each situation.