Step-by-step Template for Explaining Symptoms

Prepare Before the Appointment

Write Down Your Symptoms:

• Make a list of your symptoms, including physical, mental, and emotional ones.

• Be specific: note when they started, how often they occur, and their severity (e.g., mild, moderate, severe).

Use a Symptom Tracker:

• Keep a record of your symptoms using a diary or app.

• Note triggers, patterns, and how they affect your daily life.

Organise Information by Categories:

• Group symptoms into categories such as physical health, mental health, or sensory difficulties.

• For example:

  • Physical: Headaches, fatigue, stomach issues.

  • Mental: Anxiety, difficulty focusing, intrusive thoughts.

  • Sensory: Difficulty with bright lights or loud noises.

Create a Summary Document:

• Use bullet points or short sentences to summarise key points.

• Include your name, date of birth, and any diagnoses or medications you’re taking.

Structure Your Explanation

Use the following structure to communicate your symptoms effectively:

Introduce Yourself and Your Needs:

• "I find it challenging to express myself verbally, so I’ve prepared some notes."

• "I would like to explain my symptoms step-by-step. Please let me know if you need more details."

Describe Each Symptom: For each symptom, use this format:

• What: What is the symptom? (e.g., "I often feel dizzy.")

• When: When does it happen? (e.g., "It occurs when I stand up quickly.")

• How Often: How often does it occur? (e.g., "It happens 3–4 times a day.")

• Severity: Rate the severity (e.g., "It’s very uncomfortable and affects my ability to focus.")

• Impact: Explain how it affects your life (e.g., "This makes it hard for me to leave the house.")

Example: "I have frequent headaches. They usually start in the afternoon, happen daily, and are moderate to severe. They make it difficult for me to concentrate or finish tasks."

Highlight Triggers or Patterns:

• "I’ve noticed that [trigger] seems to make my symptoms worse."

• "It happens more often in [situation]."

Mention Previous Attempts to Manage Symptoms:

• "I’ve tried [strategy, medication, or lifestyle change], but it hasn’t helped."

Use Visual Aids if Helpful

• Bring charts, notes, or symptom trackers to show trends over time.

• Use simple drawings or diagrams if describing physical pain or areas affected.

Ask for Clarification

If you don’t understand something, say:

• "Could you explain that differently?"

• "I process information better in writing. Could you write that down for me?"

Focus on Desired Outcomes

End with what you hope to achieve:

• "I’d like help managing this symptom."

• "Could we explore what might be causing this?"

• "I’d like a referral to a specialist."

Follow Up

Ask for a Written Summary:

• Request a copy of the consultation notes or key points in writing.

Schedule a Follow-Up:

• Confirm the next steps or any future appointments.

Template Example

Here’s an example of a completed form that you could complete and give to your doctor or healthcare professional at an appointment:

Name: Jane Smith
Date of Birth: 01/01/1990
Current Diagnoses: Autism Spectrum Disorder, Generalised Anxiety Disorder

Symptoms:

• Headaches:

  • What: Daily headaches, moderate to severe.

  • When: Afternoons, lasting 2–3 hours.

  • Impact: Difficult to concentrate, worsens anxiety.

  • Trigger: Bright lights and screen time.

• Anxiety:

  • What: Constant worry and restlessness.

  • When: All day, worse in the mornings.

  • Impact: Difficulty leaving the house, avoiding social situations.

  • Trigger: Unpredictable events or loud environments.

Current Medications:

• Paracetamol as needed (for headaches).

• Sertraline (50mg daily).

Questions/Requests:

• "Could we explore possible causes of my headaches, such as migraines or sensory sensitivities?"

• "Are there therapies or medications to better manage my anxiety?"

• "Could I be referred to an occupational therapist for sensory support?"

Final Thoughts

This structure ensures you clearly explain your symptoms and leave the appointment with actionable next steps.