Description

Side effects are unintended and often adverse reactions that occur in response to a medication or treatment. They can vary in severity and may affect different individuals in different ways.

Interpreter Notes

Interpreters should be aware that patients may describe side effects using various terms, such as 'reacciones adversas' or 'efectos no deseados', which are colloquial alternatives. It is important to maintain a formal register and use the term 'efectos secundarios' in clinical contexts to ensure clarity and professionalism.

Example Sentences

EN: The doctor explained the potential side effects of the medication before prescribing it.

ES: El médico explicó los posibles efectos secundarios del medicamento antes de recetarlo.

Common Interpreter Mistakes

Confusing 'side effects' with 'allergic reactions'; misinterpreting 'efectos secundarios' as 'secondary effects'; using informal language when discussing medical terms.