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Feeling Sick Abroad? Essential English Phrases for the Pharmacy (A1)

Learn vital English phrases for describing symptoms and getting medicine at a pharmacy when you're feeling unwell on your travels. This Simple English Dialogue lesson covers common ailments like headaches and stomach aches.

LevelA1
Estimated read2 min
Published2026-08-01

Navigating Health Issues Abroad: Today's Dialogue

Imagine you're enjoying a fantastic trip overseas, but suddenly, you wake up with a splitting headache or an upset stomach. What do you do? Finding a local pharmacy and clearly explaining your symptoms in English is crucial. In this podcast from Simple English Dialogue, we'll guide you through a common scenario where two friends need to describe their sudden illness, like a bad headache or feeling dizzy, to a pharmacist to get the right medicine. Learn how to express your discomfort simply and effectively!


Sample Dialogue

Speaker A:Hello, and welcome to our podcast.

Speaker B:Today, we talk about feeling sick on a trip.

Speaker A:I have a bad headache.

Speaker B:My stomach feels sick.

Speaker A:Let's find a pharmacy.

Speaker B:Good idea. I need medicine.

Speaker A:Hello, I have a headache.

Speaker B:I feel dizzy.

Speaker A:Do you have medicine for pain?

Speaker B:Do you have something for the stomach?

Speaker A:The pharmacist can help us.

Speaker B:Yes, they know good medicine.

Speaker A:I need water with my medicine.

Speaker B:Me too. Water is important.

Speaker A:I feel better already.

Speaker B:Me too. Thank you for listening.


Key Expressions Summary

ExpressionMeaningExample
I have a bad headache.My head hurts a lot; I have a severe pain in my head."I have a bad headache, so I need to rest."
My stomach feels sick.I feel nauseous or have an upset stomach."After eating that strange food, my stomach feels sick."
I feel dizzy.I feel lightheaded and unsteady, as if the room is spinning."When I stood up too quickly, I felt dizzy."
Do you have medicine for pain?Do you have medication to relieve physical discomfort or aches?"Excuse me, do you have medicine for pain in my back?"
The pharmacist can help us.The person who is trained to prepare and dispense medicines can assist us."Let's ask the pharmacist if this cream is good for insect bites."

Key Vocabulary and Tips

Word Match

Connect each English word to the correct meaning.

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Dealing with unexpected health issues while traveling can be stressful, but knowing a few key English phrases can make a big difference. This lesson from Simple English Dialogue helps you confidently communicate your needs at a foreign pharmacy. Practice these expressions, and you'll be better prepared for any minor health hiccups on your adventures. Stay healthy and keep learning with Simple English Dialogue!