How to Describe Your Headache in Japanese

When experiencing a headache and seeking medical attention in Japan, doctors often rely on onomatopoeic expressions to understand the specific symptoms. Here are several common expressions used to describe different types of headaches.

Zukizuki

Zukizuki describes a throbbing or pulsating pain in the head.

頭がズキズキする

/atama ɡa zukizuki suɾu/

Gangan

Gangan signifies a pounding or hammering sensation in the head.

頭がガンガンする

/atama ga gangan suɾu/

Kurakura

Kurakura indicates a feeling of dizziness or lightheadedness accompanying the headache.

頭がクラクラする

/atama ga kuɾa kuɾa suɾu/

Boutto suru

Boutto signifies a foggy or hazy feeling in the head, often associated with a dull headache. When people who may have after covid, boutto is used to express their symptoms.

頭がぼーっとする

/atamaɡa boːtto suru/

The terms “zukizuki,” “gangan,” “kurakura,” and “boutto” are used to describe different types of headaches. Additionally, there are a few colloquial phrases that can be used to express the feeling of having a headache.

The other expressions of headaches

Atama ga wareru （あたまがわれる）

“Atama ga wareru” conveys an intense, splitting headache, as if the head is about to split open.

頭がわれるほど痛い

/atama ɡa waɾeɾu hodo itai/

My head hurts so much that it feels like it’s going to split.

Atamaga shinetsuke rareru （あたまがしめつけられる）

頭が締め付けられるように痛い (Atama ga shimetsuke rareru): This expression describes a sensation of tightness or pressure as if the head is being squeezed.

頭が締め付けられるように痛い

/atama ɡa ʃimetsuke ɾaɾeɾu jouni itai/

My head hurts as if it’s being squeezed.

Next time you visit a doctor in Japan for a headache, try using these onomatopoeic expressions to accurately describe your symptoms. This will help the doctor better understand your condition and provide appropriate treatment.

Remember, it’s important to communicate effectively with your healthcare provider to ensure you receive the best care possible.

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