What Should I Track Between Doctor Visits? A Patient Advocate’s Daily Health Journal Guide
“Tracking the important things may take time but you’ll be glad you did!”
Why Tracking Your Health Matters
Sometimes I can’t remember where I put my phone (okay, more than sometimes). Are you sure you’re going to be able to remember everything you need to share with your physician at your next appointment? Tracking the important things may take time but you’ll be glad you did! Whether you’re dealing with a chronic illness, recovering from an injury, or simply trying to stay on top of your well-being, this guide is for you. The more detailed and organized you are, the better you can communicate with your care team to get the care you need.
The Importance of a Daily Health Journal
Each day can be different in your health journey and you won’t remember the small details unless you’re intentional about it. There may be small clues, like a nagging symptom each evening, or something bigger like a new medication causing side effects. Without a structured way to track your health, important details can slip through the cracks, and your physician won’t be able to address these concerns. A well-kept daily health journal can be just the tool you need to stay organized, making sure you and your care team has all the information they need to help you make informed medical decisions about your treatment plan.
What to Include in Your Daily Health Journal
A health journal is more than just a symptom tracker—it’s a way to put you in charge of your healthcare and help you communicate with your physician. Here are the essential categories to monitor:
1. Symptoms and Patterns
Is it fatigue, pain, nausea? When is it happening? These can all be clues to helping you feel better. Take note of the symptoms as they happen. Be specific about:
- Frequency, duration, and severity of symptoms
- What makes them better or worse
- Time of day they occur
- Any potential triggers (food, stress, medications, etc.)
2. Medications and Side Effects
Keeping an updated medication log is important for your primary physicians and all providers from the ER to the specialist office. Having this information can make sure you’re getting the treatment you need and avoid medication interactions. Track:
- Medication names, dosages, and schedules
- Any missed doses
- New or worsening side effects
- How the medication makes you feel overall
3. Vital Signs and Health Metrics
This is particularly important if you have a complex medical condition or chronic illness. If you’re able to check once daily at the same time each day and more frequently as directed or needed, consider tracking:
- Blood pressure
- Heart rate
- Oxygen levels
- Weight changes
- Blood sugar (as directed if applicable)
- Temperature (if dealing with infections or immune conditions)
4. Diet, Hydration, and Activity
What you eat and how active you are can directly impact your health and keeping track can help identify lifestyle factors affecting your condition. Keep a log of:
- Meals and snacks
- Water intake
- Exercise and movement levels
5. Emotional and Mental Health
Your mental well-being is just as important as your physical health. Noting your mood, stress levels, and sleep patterns can provide insights into overall health trends and identify if you need support in this area as well.
How to Use Your Health Journal for Better Care
- Bring your journal to medical appointments to share with your physician.
- Identify patterns that could help manage diagnoses and treatment plans.
- Improve your confidence in discussing your health with providers.
Take Charge of Your Health Today
Tracking your health between physician visits isn’t just a good habit—it’s a powerful tool. If you choose to take control of your health and make it a priority, you will find time to keep this journal. It doesn’t have to be fancy, a simple notebook will be fine. If there are more things you want to track that are important to you, make this your own!
Get Professional Support
If you want to take charge and start tracking and managing your health and it seems overwhelming, don’t do it alone. I can help as your Independent Patient Advocate. Together we can identify what you want to track and how you want to use that information. We can improve your confidence in communicating with your care team and make sure you get the care you desire.
Note: Always consult with your healthcare provider before making changes to your health management approach.
Contact me to Schedule a FREE 30 Minute Consultation
Find out how I can help you navigate your healthcare with more confidence and less stress.
Dr. Kelly Carter, MD, FACEP, BCPA is a Board Certified Patient Advocate as well as a board certified Emergency Physician with over 20 years of experience in the ER. She helps patients navigate complex medical conditions and healthcare decisions through AlignedCare Advocacy.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of your physician or other qualified health professional for any questions you may have regarding your health.
