Migraine & Headache Diary

Keeping a headache diary can help you and your healthcare provider understand your migraine patterns, possible triggers, and which treatments work best.

Try to complete this diary each time a headache or migraine occurs.

Headache Episode Log

Symptoms You Experienced

Check any symptoms that occurred with the headache.

☐ Throbbing or pulsating pain
☐ Sensitivity to light
☐ Sensitivity to sound
☐ Nausea
☐ Vomiting
☐ Blurred vision
☐ Visual disturbances (aura)
☐ Dizziness
☐ Neck pain
☐ Fatigue
☐ Difficulty concentrating
☐ Other: ___________________________

Possible Triggers in the Previous 24 Hours

Check anything that may have occurred before the headache.

Sleep

☐ Too little sleep
☐ Too much sleep
☐ Poor sleep quality
Hours slept: _______

Food and Drinks

☐ Skipped meal
☐ Ate late
☐ Alcohol
☐ Caffeine
☐ Possible trigger food

Foods eaten before headache:

Hydration

☐ Drank enough fluids
☐ Possibly dehydrated

Stress Level

☐ Low
☐ Moderate
☐ High

Stressful events:

Environment

☐ Bright lights
☐ Loud noises
☐ Strong smells
☐ Weather change
☐ Screen exposure

Hormonal Changes (if applicable)

☐ Menstrual cycle
☐ Hormonal medication changes

Medication or Treatment Used

Medication taken:

Time medication taken:

Did it help?

☐ Yes
☐ Somewhat
☐ No

Other relief methods:

☐ Rest or sleep
☐ Dark room
☐ Ice pack
☐ Hydration
☐ Massage
☐ Other: ___________________________

Impact on Daily Activities

Did the headache interfere with your normal activities?

☐ No impact
☐ Mild disruption
☐ Moderate disruption
☐ Unable to continue normal activities

Additional Notes

Weekly Summary

At the end of the week, review your diary.

Number of headaches this week: _______

Possible patterns noticed:

Questions for your healthcare provider:

Click here for a printer-friendly headache/migraine diary

⚠️ Medical Disclaimer

This resource is provided for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. The information presented is general in nature and may not apply to every individual or health situation.

Individuals should consult their physician or other qualified healthcare professional for personalized medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment recommendations related to their specific health conditions and should not begin any new exercise program or change their diet or medications without consulting their healthcare professional.

Call 911 if you are experiencing a medical emergency.