A useful headache diary records whether head pain occurred, its severity and duration, relevant symptoms, medication taken and any notes you may want to discuss. Keep unknown information unknown rather than filling gaps from memory.
Free printable headache diary template
This template is deliberately restrained. It gives you a fast monthly view without requiring a long questionnaire every day. Print the page from your browser; no email address or account is required.
Monthly headache diary
Mark only what you know. A blank cell means “not recorded,” not “symptom-free.”
| Date | Headache? | Severity 0–10 | Start / end | Medication | Symptoms / notes | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | ||||||
| 2 | ||||||
| 3 | ||||||
| 4 | ||||||
| 5 | ||||||
| 6 | ||||||
| 7 | ||||||
| 8 | ||||||
| 9 | ||||||
| 10 | ||||||
| 11 | ||||||
| 12 | ||||||
| 13 | ||||||
| 14 | ||||||
| 15 | ||||||
| 16 | ||||||
| 17 | ||||||
| 18 | ||||||
| 19 | ||||||
| 20 | ||||||
| 21 | ||||||
| 22 | ||||||
| 23 | ||||||
| 24 | ||||||
| 25 | ||||||
| 26 | ||||||
| 27 | ||||||
| 28 | ||||||
| 29 | ||||||
| 30 | ||||||
| 31 |
Headache episode detail
Use this optional second page when more detail would be useful to remember.
What is useful to record?
There is no single perfect diary. A format that you can keep consistently is more useful than a detailed form you abandon. Common fields include:
How to use the diary without making it a burden
- Choose the smallest useful routine. A date, severity and duration can be enough on a difficult day.
- Record near the event when possible. If you add details later, treat them as recollection rather than certainty.
- Leave blanks honestly. “Not recorded” is different from “did not happen.”
- Review before an appointment. Look for questions worth discussing rather than diagnosing yourself from a pattern.
- Bring the record to a qualified professional. A diary can support a conversation; it cannot determine the cause of symptoms.
When paper helps—and when an app may help more
Paper is immediate, flexible and does not require a device. It can be the best choice if you prefer handwriting or want a simple sheet on the fridge. An app may be easier when you want searchable history, structured episode details, summaries across date ranges or a PDF prepared from what you recorded.
Prefer a private iPhone journal?
Record now. Add detail when you can.
MigraLoom keeps entries on your iPhone, requires no account and helps turn recorded history into an optional visit report. Five episodes are free; continued logging uses a one-time unlock.
View MigraLoom on the App Store ↗Sources and editorial note
This resource was prepared by Kestora Labs, the maker of MigraLoom. It is designed as a neutral recording aid, not a diagnostic questionnaire.
- American Migraine Foundation: Headache Journals—Tracking Your Migraine
- American Migraine Foundation: What to track in a headache diary
- NHS: Migraine overview and diary guidance
Medical notice: This page provides a blank personal-record template and general educational information. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, treatment or emergency care. Seek professional medical advice for health concerns. For sudden or severe symptoms, use the emergency services appropriate to your location.