What Does That Even Mean?

Have you ever left a doctor’s appointment feeling confused by the words that were used? You’re not alone. Health terms can sometimes feel overwhelming, technical or hard to follow especially when you’re already feeling unwell, worried or stressed.

Using everyday language can make a big difference. When health information is explained in clear, simple words, people are more likely to understand what’s happening with their body, feel confident asking questions and make informed choices about their care. Clear communication isn’t about “dumbing things down” it’s about making sure everyone has the same understanding.

In communities like the Hawkesbury, where people of all ages, backgrounds and life experiences access health care, plain language helps ensure no one is left behind.

Why health terms can feel confusing

Medical language is often designed for professionals talking to other professionals. Words like diagnosis, chronic, or benign may be familiar to doctors, but to patients they can sound serious, frightening or unclear.

When we don’t fully understand what’s being said, we may:

• feel anxious or unsure
• agree to treatments without really knowing why
• avoid asking questions because we don’t want to feel embarrassed
• leave appointments feeling more confused than when we arrived

Health terms in plain words

Here are some common health terms explained using everyday language:

• Diagnosis – What the doctor thinks is causing your problem or symptoms.
• Chronic – A condition that lasts a long time or keeps coming back, rather than going away quickly.
• Acute – Something that starts suddenly and usually doesn’t last long.
• Benign – Not cancer and not dangerous.
• Malignant – Cancerous and able to spread.
• Inflammation – Swelling, redness or pain as the body reacts to injury or infection.
• Side effects – Other things a medicine might do to your body, not just the main effect.
• Referral – When your doctor sends you to another health professional for more help or tests.
• Preventative care – Steps taken to stop illness before it starts, like check-ups, screenings or vaccines.

Hearing these terms explained clearly can reduce fear and help people feel more in control of their health.

It’s okay to ask for clear words

Many people worry about asking doctors to “explain it again,” but health professionals want patients to understand. You have the right to ask questions and to ask for information to be explained in a way that makes sense to you.

Helpful phrases include:

• “Can you explain that in simple terms?”
• “What does that mean for me day-to-day?”
• “Can you say that another way?”
• “What are my options?”

If English isn’t your first language, you can also ask about interpreter services.

Feeling informed means feeling empowered

When we talk about our health in clear words, we feel more confident, better informed and more able to take part in decisions about our care. Understanding what’s happening helps reduce anxiety and builds trust between patients and health professionals.

Health care works best when it’s a conversation not a lecture.

So next time you hear a term that makes you think, “What does that even mean?” remember: it’s okay to ask. Clear words lead to better care, better understanding and better health for everyone in our community.