From the National Headache Foundation

Keeping a headache diary can help your doctor help you. Use it to compile a headache history and to track when your migraines occur and how they affect you. Patterns identified from your diary may help your doctor determine which type of headache you have and the most beneficial treatments. See your doctor specifically to talk about your head pain, and be prepared to tell him or her everything about the circumstances of your migraines.

Include in your diary:

• When you started having headaches
• How often they occur, the time of day, the day of the week
• How long they last
• Where the pain is
• What triggers your headaches: certain foods, certain physical activities, bright light, strong odors, cigarette smoke, stress, noise or oversleeping
• The intensity of your pain – from mild to severe
• The type of pain: throbbing, pounding, stabbing or blinding
• The impact your migraines have on your daily life
• What kind of medication you took and if it had any effect
• Symptoms you may experience before the onset of the headache
• If your headaches are associated with your menstrual cycle

Print our easy-to-use Migraine Diary.