Writing Your Own Health Journal

Your doctor keeps a file of your health conditions and treatments. But what about the symptoms you feel when out of your doctor's reach? What about your reactions to medications and treatments? Your doctor won't be able to know and monitor all of these unless you have a photographic memory and explain to him in exact detail what happened and when. As such, it is a good idea to keep a health journal.

Aside from helping you become more proactive in your healthcare, a health journal can also keep track of events that can affect you health-wise.

To start, it's best to include as much health information as possible. You can contact your doctor's office to get information from your medical records. This can help you fill in information about past health issues. If you don't have access to your past medical records, you can still record general information. If you've had surgeries or illnesses in the past, write those down. You don't need to know the exact dates. Once you've filled in as much information as you can, start recording your current health history.

By: Kristine Gonzaga