(HealthDay News) -- 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.