A headache diary is a journal of when your headaches occur, the circumstances surrounding them, and the symptoms you experience before, during, and after a headache episode. By tracking your headaches in this way, you provide your doctor with information that will be invaluable in diagnosing what type of primary headache you have (migraine or otherwise).

Headache diaries are also important for gathering information on those things that might trigger a headache attack, such as certain foods, stress, lighting, weather changes, and other environmental factors. They can also help you identify any symptoms that consistently precede an attack. If possible, start a diary prior to your first doctor's appointment. It will help your provider take a more accurate medical history.

Diary Basics

When you document your headaches, try to note your activities prior to the headache episode, including what you ate, physical activity, sleep patterns, exposure to any unusual odors or visual stimuli (i.e., bright lights, high contrast patterns), notable changes in weather, and emotional stress.

For premenopausal women, it's also important to note where you are in your menstrual cycle when your headaches occur because migraines are often associated with hormonal changes.

Tracking Treatments

Keep track of any medications you take as well, including vitamins, supplements, and over-the-counter drugs. Some medications can cause headache, including overuse of certain pain relievers. If environmental factors such as temperature, lighting, and changes in humidity ease your head pain, note this as well. Also note those environmental changes that make your head pain worse.

Find out more about headache diaries and read through a sample headache diary.