- Record timing, duration, location, symptoms, food, sleep and what helped.
- A changing headache pattern matters even if you have had headaches for years.
- Sudden severe headache or neurological symptoms require urgent medical attention.
Why memory is unreliable
When headaches come and go, it is easy to remember only the worst episode. A short diary creates a clearer picture. Record the date, start time, duration, location, intensity and whether the pain was pressure-like, throbbing or associated with neck tightness.
Track the context
Note sleep, missed meals, hydration, caffeine, alcohol, menstruation if relevant, work stress, screen time, exercise and unusual smells or light. HealthHub notes that headache and migraine triggers can include stress, too little or too much sleep, hunger and certain foods or drinks.
Record associated symptoms
Nausea, light sensitivity, sound sensitivity, visual changes, numbness, weakness, fever, stiff neck or dizziness can change the clinical picture. Also write down any medicine taken, the dose if known and whether it helped. Frequent painkiller use is worth mentioning to a doctor or pharmacist.
Look for change, not just frequency
A person with a familiar recurring pattern may still need review if headaches become more severe, start more suddenly, occur after an injury or behave differently from usual. A diary makes that change easier to demonstrate instead of relying on a vague impression.
How this helps a TCM consultation
A TCM practitioner may ask additional questions about sleep, digestion, stress and other symptoms. Bring the same diary. It keeps the discussion grounded in what actually happened and makes it easier to coordinate with conventional medical care when needed.
This guide is general health education, not a diagnosis or personal treatment plan. Persistent, severe or rapidly worsening symptoms should receive appropriate medical assessment.
Further reading: HealthHub: Headache and Migraine