Introduction
A headache diary is a kind of written log that records various data about headaches. It is therefore an important tool in the diagnosis and treatment of headaches. The patient is given a template with appropriate criteria by which the headache is to be assessed when it occurs. After a certain period of time, the headache diary is then evaluated together with the treating physician.
Who should keep a headache diary?
The creation of a headache diary can be very helpful in selecting an appropriate therapy. In principle, everyone who suffers from headaches over a long period of time benefits from a headache diary. This does not mean that a headache diary must necessarily be created for occasional headaches that last only for a short time and/or are hardly restrictive.
Headache is one of the most common symptoms of all and in some cases there is a clear cause that can be treated accordingly. Often, however, the cause is not clearly identifiable, making therapy difficult. Those affected benefit most from a headache diary.
If the cause is not clearly identifiable, special consideration must be given to the circumstances under which the headache occurs. This means, for example, the time of day or the situations in which they occur, i.e. at rest, during sport, during or after a meal and so on. Through all these questions, various triggers, i.e. factors that promote headache, can be identified.
What is documented in a headache diary?
A headache diary is a collection of various facts and characteristics of the headache that occurs. The whole should be recorded for at least one month to be representative of the type and nature of the headache. It is important to note that more information about specific characteristics of the headache will allow more precise conclusions to be drawn about the treatment.
First, a headache diary is used to document when, how often and for how long the headache occurs each day. The severity of the headache can be divided into different levels, depending on the template. Furthermore, a statement about the type of pain is important, i.e. whether the pain is throbbing or pulsating or rather pressing and dull.
The location of the headache and whether it occurs on one side of the head or on both sides must also be documented. In addition, accompanying symptoms such as nausea, vomiting or visual disturbances must be recorded. Of course, information about a possible trigger, such as stress or menstruation, as well as against the headache and generally taken medication is important.
Furthermore, more detailed information about the person’s activity should be recorded. This includes whether the headache occurred during physical activity and whether or not work can be done despite the headache. This topic may also be of interest to you: Headaches after sport
