Whether you’re tracking symptoms for yourself or someone you care for, knowing when they occur, what type and their severity will be very helpful in assessing and successfully treating a medical condition.
There are many different ways to track symptoms-an App for smart phone or watch, pencil/paper, writing on a calendar etc.
WHEN TO TRACK: It’s best to do this daily so you don’t forget.
WHAT TO TRACK: In addition to the date and time of the symptoms, add other information that might be associated with it. In this way, you’ll start to recognize if certain medications, foods, activities etc. impact the type of symptoms you have and when they occur. While Apps will provide severity scoring systems, if you are keeping track via pencil/paper rate your symptoms from 0 (no symptoms) to 10 (very extreme experience of the symptom).
HOW TO TRACK As noted above there are lots of ways to track symptoms. Some people like Apps, while others for security and other reasons prefer pencil/paper. Do what feels right for you.
Free printable trackers:
• Free Symptom Tracker Printable: The Best Way to Log Symptoms
• Medical Diaries, Journals, and Logs
Which App Should I Use?: Some conditions do have their own Apps. For example Visible, which is a free Beta test app, was designed with Long Covid symptoms in mind. There is also now a Long Haul Tracker App. Check with your specific condition organization (e.g. Diabetic Association) as well as talk to your medical provider about their recommendations. Below are two good reviews of Apps, some of which are free
• Top 7 Best Chronic Illness Symptom Tracker Apps in 2022
• Top 13 Best Apps for People with a Chronic Illness in 2022
Take your symptom chart to your medical appointments. This will help the medical provider have a better understanding of what your dealing with and can result in and better treatment plans.
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