A headache diary records when the pain started, how long it lasted, the accompanying symptoms, and the medications used. It does not replace a diagnosis; it makes it easier to discuss patterns and treatment response during a consultation.
What information should you record in the diary?
- Date, start and end time; pain-free days.
- Location and severity of the pain, and accompanying symptoms such as nausea, light sensitivity, or aura.
- The name, dose, and time of the medication used, and what changed afterward.
- How much work, school, or household tasks were affected.
- Sleep, meals, menstrual cycle, and any potential triggers you notice.
A diary template you can copy
Date: … | Start–end: … | Severity (0–10): … | Symptoms: … | Medication / dose / time: … | Outcome: … | Impact on daily life: … | Other notes: …
How should you interpret the records?
A single incident does not prove that a particular food or behavior caused an attack. Note recurring patterns; do not use the records to blame yourself or to change your medication dose on your own. Agree on the follow-up period with your doctor.
What should you bring to your appointment?
Bring your diary and your current medication list with you. It is helpful to show, separately, the days with headache in the month and the days you used medication for pain. You can read the guide to living with migraine for information on daily habits.
Sources and information
This content is for general information only; it does not replace personal diagnosis, treatment advice or a medical consultation. The applicability of recommendations in these sources depends on your individual situation and local practice.