Learning a new language opens doors to new cultures, people, and experiences. If you’re venturing into Finnish, understanding health and medical vocabulary is particularly practical, whether for travel or living in Finland. Here’s a list of essential health and medical Finnish terms, complete with definitions and example sentences to help build your vocabulary.

Lääkäri means “doctor” or “physician.” It is one of the most basic health-related terms and useful in many situations.
Voinko varata ajan lääkärille? (Can I make an appointment with the doctor?)

Sairaala translates to “hospital.” This word can be crucial in an emergency.
Hän vietiin sairaalaan ambulanssilla. (He was taken to the hospital by ambulance.)

Apteekki is the Finnish term for “pharmacy” or “drugstore,” where you can get prescription and over-the-counter medication.
Täytyy käydä apteekissa hakemassa lääkettä. (I need to go to the pharmacy to get some medicine.)

Lääke means “medicine” or “medication.” It’s important to know this word when discussing prescriptions.
Lääkäri määräsi minulle uutta lääkettä. (The doctor prescribed a new medication for me.)

Hoito translates to “treatment” or “care.” It is often used in the context of medical care.
Tämä hoito voi kestää useita viikkoja. (This treatment may take several weeks.)

Terveys means “health,” a word that’s fundamental in all health-related contexts.
Liikunta on hyväksi terveydelle. (Exercise is good for health.)

Kipu translates as “pain.” You’ll need this word to describe any physical discomfort.
Päässä on kovaa kipua. (There is a severe pain in the head.)

Ensiapu means “first aid.” It’s related to the initial care provided in case of injury or illness.
Onko sinulla ensiapupakkaus? (Do you have a first aid kit?)

Vamma is the term for “injury,” and it can refer to both physical and psychological injuries.
Hän sai vamman jalkapallo-ottelussa. (He got an injury during the soccer match.)

Tauti means “disease” or “illness.” It’s a general term for any type of health issue.
Flunssa on yleinen tauti talvisin. (The flu is a common disease in winter.)

Allergia translates to “allergy,” a reaction by your immune system to something that does not bother most other people.
Minulla on allergia pähkinöille. (I have an allergy to nuts.)

Rokote means “vaccine.” It’s essential to be familiar with this word as vaccines are crucial for health.
Hän sai influenssarokotteen. (He received the flu vaccine.)

Syöpä translates to “cancer.” This term is used to refer to the disease that can affect any part of the body.
Syöpä on vakava sairaus. (Cancer is a serious illness.)

Verenpaine means “blood pressure” and is a common term used in medical check-ups.
Lääkäri mittasi verenpaineeni. (The doctor measured my blood pressure.)

Diabetes is the Finnish word for “diabetes,” a disease that affects blood sugar levels.
Hänen isällään on diabetes. (His father has diabetes.)

With this list of health and medical Finnish vocabulary, you are better prepared to discuss and understand health-related issues in Finnish. Remember, learning a language is a process, and consistency is key. Keep practicing, and soon you’ll have the confidence to navigate medical situations in Finnish with ease. Onnea matkaan! (Good luck on your journey!)