Health Tip: Keep a Health Journal

HealthDay, November, 2009 by Diana Kohnle

When your doctor asks you about any illnesses, injuries or past procedures, there's no need to commit it all to memory if you keep a health journal.

The American Academy of Family Physicians suggests your journal include the following:

Any injuries you've had or illnesses for which you've been treated. Any time you were hospitalized, including when and why. Any allergies you have to foods, medications, household items, pollens, etc. Any past surgeries or procedures. All prescription and over-the-counter medications, vitamins or supplements taken. Be sure to include the dose and how often you take them. Diseases, illnesses or health conditions that have affected immediate family members.