Keeping a Migraine Diary

Migraine headaches are extremely troublesome and can strike at anytime. The good news is that they can be controlled by keeping track of them. Keeping a migraine diary is a vital tool on the way to getting the migraines under control. This can also be a helpful tool to take to the doctor to discuss with him or her. There are a few simple items on a migraine diary that can help pinpoint what may be causing the migraines.

Date and Time of Attack

When did the migraine occur? Was it in the morning, afternoon, or evening? There may be a certain time of day that migraines occur.

Activity

Was there a certain type of activity associated with the migraine? Were you doing anything specific prior to the migraine?

Location of Pain

Where is the pain located on the head? Was it on top, to one side or near the eye(s)?

Intensity of the Pain

What was the intensity of the pain? Was the pain mild, moderate or severe? Was it a sharp or dull pain?

Duration of Pain

How long did the migraine last?

Symptoms

What symptoms accompanied the headache? Do you have any symptoms prior to the headache (aura)? These can affect your visual, sensory, hearing, or speaking. Did you have any symptoms with the headache, such as sensitivity to touch, light or sound, nausea, vomiting, dizziness and/or confusion?

Possible Triggers

List any possible triggers, such as too little sleep, skipping meals, stress, weather changes, or medication. Is there any food that you're sensitive to (i.e. nuts, chocolate, cured meats, processed foods with MSG, aged cheese, caffeine or artificial sweeteners)?

Medication Used and Dosage

What medication(s) did you use for the migraine? Was it helpful? How long before you found relief?

Any Further Comments

This can be anything else that comes to mind pertaining to the migraine.

A migraine diary can be constructed into a chart for easy tracking of the headache. This can provide information on how to deal with your migraines. A migraine diary is a vital tool on your way to controlling and coping with your migraines.