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

Date	Time Headache Started	Time Ended	Pain Level (1–10)	Location of Pain	Symptoms

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

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Medical Disclaimer

This resource is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Individuals experiencing headaches should consult their physician, neurologist, or qualified healthcare provider for personalized evaluation and treatment recommendations. Seek immediate medical care for sudden, severe, or unusual headaches or headaches accompanied by neurological symptoms. Call 911 if you are experiencing a medical emergency.