simptom

Simptom, occasionally spelled symptom in English, refers to a subjective indication of disease or abnormal bodily function as perceived by the patient. Unlike a sign, which is an objective finding observed by someone else, a simptom is reported by the person experiencing it and can vary in intensity, timing, and quality. Symptoms help define the clinical picture but may not by themselves establish a diagnosis.

Common categories include pain, fatigue, shortness of breath, nausea, dizziness, and feverish sensations. Some symptoms are non-specific, such as malaise or generalized weakness, while others are more localized, such as chest pain or abdominal pain. Symptoms may appear suddenly or develop gradually and can be influenced by age, comorbid conditions, medications, and psychological factors.

During medical evaluation, clinicians gather symptom histories through questionnaires and interviews. The patient’s description guides differential diagnosis, triage, and decisions about tests and treatments. Patient-reported outcome measures formalize symptom reporting in research and clinical practice, allowing tracking of severity and response to therapy.

Because symptoms are subjective, they depend on communication and interpretation. Language, culture, education, and prior experiences can affect reporting. Some symptoms may be underreported due to stigma or fear, while others may be exaggerated by anxiety or cognitive disorders. Objective signs and laboratory data complement symptom information to reach a diagnosis.

Understanding symptoms is also important for early detection of outbreaks and for triage in emergencies, where certain red-flag symptoms indicate urgent assessment. In summary, simptom is a central concept in clinical medicine, reflecting the patient’s experience of health and illness alongside objective findings.