Spanish Phrase
Mis síntomas están empeorando.
Meaning
This phrase is used to communicate that a medical condition or physical state is deteriorating. It utilizes the present progressive tense to indicate that the decline is happening right now or has been continuous recently.
When to use
Use this phrase when speaking to a doctor, pharmacist, or caregiver to report a negative change in your health. It is essential for ensuring you receive the correct level of medical urgency.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Missíntomasestánempeorando
Possessive Adjectives
'Mis' is the plural form of 'mi' (my), matching the plural noun 'síntomas'.
Present Progressive
The combination of 'están' (are) and 'empeorando' (getting worse) creates a sense of ongoing action in the present.
🗨In Conversation
¿Ha notado algún cambio desde ayer?
Have you noticed any changes since yesterday?
Sí, mis síntomas están empeorando y tengo más fiebre.
Yes, my symptoms are getting worse and I have more of a fever.
✕Common Mistakes
Mis síntomas son empeorando.
Always use the verb 'estar' rather than 'ser' when forming the progressive tense to describe a temporary state or ongoing action.
Mis síntomas están empeorar.
After the auxiliary verb 'estar', you must use the gerund form (ending in -ando or -iendo) rather than the infinitive.
↔Alternatives
Me siento cada vez peor.
I feel worse and worse.
Mi estado de salud ha decaído.
My state of health has declined.
Cultural Tip
In Spanish-speaking healthcare settings, patients are often encouraged to be descriptive about the progression of their illness. Using 'están empeorando' clearly signals to the provider that previous treatments may not be working or that the situation is becoming urgent.