Knowledge is power: Combat your headaches by keeping a pain diary

There are few of us who have made it this far in life without suffering a headache or two.

And while the vast majority of us are no stranger to a bit of a thumper the morning after the night before, according to research carried out in conjunction with the #HeadacheHacks campaign by Nurofen Express, a staggering 19 per cent of Irish people suffer from headaches on a weekly basis.

Many sufferers will opt to take painkillers while others are more interested in means of prevention so as to combat the condition before it kicks in. If you’re one of those people, it might be worth your while taking Dr Ciara Kelly’s diary tip into account.

It’s time to consider the following:

What have you eaten?

When you feel a headache kicking in, make a note of the food you’ve eaten so far that day.

Some foods are known for triggering headaches, so it’s always worth your while recording the food you’ve tucked into throughout the day.

What were you doing?

At what point, did you feel the symptoms developing?

Perhaps you were sitting at your computer or staring at your phone for a prolonged period of time? Maybe you were on public transport or reading alone in your house?

Noting your activity will help establish your triggers.

What were you feeling?

Dr Kelly advises sufferers to take their mood into account when they feel a headache kicking in.

By noting your mood in the lead-up to a headache, you may be able to better identify situations which will bring about a headache.

Remember, knowledge is power.

By taking note of these factors, you may begin recognising a pattern, and ultimately be able to pre-empt or prevent the onslaught of a headache.

If you are concerned about the regularity with which you suffer from headaches, it’s important you approach a medical professional for further support.

And don’t forget to bring your diary with you.