Comprehensive Guide to Japanese Medical Check-up Terminology27

Navigating the Japanese healthcare system, especially when undergoing a medical check-up (健康診断, kenkō shindan), can be daunting for non-native speakers. This comprehensive guide aims to equip you with the essential Japanese vocabulary related to medical check-ups, encompassing various stages from scheduling to receiving results. Understanding these terms will empower you to communicate effectively with medical professionals and ensure a smoother experience.

Scheduling and Preparation: Before your check-up, you'll likely interact with administrative staff. Key terms include:
健康診断 (kenkō shindan): Medical check-up; this is the overarching term.
予約する (yoyaku suru): To make a reservation/appointment.
予約 (yoyaku): Reservation/appointment.
日時 (nichijitsu): Date and time.
受診 (jusshin): Receiving a medical examination.
問診票 (monshinpyō): Medical history questionnaire.
記入する (kiinyū suru): To fill in (a form).
保険証 (hoken shō): Health insurance card.
身分証明書 (mimbunshomeisho): Identification card.

During the Check-up: The check-up itself involves a series of tests and examinations. Understanding the terminology for these procedures is crucial.
身長 (shincho): Height.
体重 (taijū): Weight.
血圧 (ketsuatsu): Blood pressure.
血圧計 (ketsuatsukei): Blood pressure monitor.
脈拍 (myakuhaku): Pulse.
視力検査 (shiryoku kensa): Vision test.
聴力検査 (chōryoku kensa): Hearing test.
血液検査 (ketsu-eki kensa): Blood test.
尿検査 (nyō kensa): Urine test.
レントゲン検査 (rentogen kensa): X-ray examination.
心電図検査 (shindenzu kensa): Electrocardiogram (ECG).
採血 (saiketsu): Blood draw.
検尿 (kennyō): Urine sample collection.
内視鏡検査 (naishikyō kensa): Endoscopy.
問診 (monshin): Medical interview/history taking.
診察 (shinsatsu): Medical examination.
医師 (ishi): Doctor/physician.
看護師 (kangoshi): Nurse.

Results and Follow-up: After the check-up, you'll receive your results. Knowing the relevant vocabulary will facilitate understanding any potential concerns.
検査結果 (kensa kekka): Examination results.
異常 (ijō): Abnormality.
正常 (jōsei): Normal.
再検査 (saikensa): Re-examination.
精密検査 (seimitsu kensa): Detailed examination.
診断 (shindan): Diagnosis.
処方箋 (shohōsen): Prescription.
薬 (kusuri): Medicine.
治療 (chiryo): Treatment.

Specific Test Results: While a full list is impossible here, understanding prefixes and suffixes can help decipher results. For example:
高 (kō): High (e.g., 高血圧 – kōketsuatsu: high blood pressure).
低 (tei): Low (e.g., 低血圧 – teiketsuatsu: low blood pressure).
異常 (ijō): Abnormal (e.g., 肝機能異常 – kan-kinō ijō: abnormal liver function).

Beyond the Basics: This guide provides a foundational vocabulary. For more specific terminology related to particular organs or conditions, consult a medical dictionary specifically designed for Japanese-English translation. Remember to always clarify any uncertainties with medical professionals to ensure accurate understanding.

Practical Tips:
Carry a small dictionary or use a translation app during your appointment.
Write down your questions beforehand.
Don't hesitate to ask for clarification if something is unclear.
Consider bringing a friend or family member who speaks Japanese for support.

Mastering this vocabulary will significantly enhance your experience with the Japanese healthcare system. While this guide covers many essential terms, continuous learning and proactive communication are crucial for a successful and safe medical check-up in Japan.

2025-07-04

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