Cold induced headache
A cold-induced headache is a brief, severe headache that occurs when you eat, drink, or inhale something cold. It is often triggered by biting into ice cream, although other cold foods and drinks can also cause a 'brain freeze' effect.
A cold-induced headache, also called an ice cream headache, can occur when the bare head is exposed to cold temperatures, such as diving into cold water.
Most cold-induced headaches disappear soon
A cold-induced headache develops as a result of the contact of a cold object, often ice cream, with the warm parts of the mouth and throat. Scientists do not know exactly by what mechanism pain develops
One theory is that cold food or drink temporarily alters blood flow to the brain, causing a short-term headache. Blood vessels constrict to prevent heat loss, then relax to allow blood to move This causes a short-term headache, which disappears as soon as the body gets used to the temperature change
Symptoms of a cold-induced headache include:
- Sharp, stabbing pain in the forehead
- Pain that peaks in 20-60 seconds and disappears in about the same time
- Pain that rarely lasts longer than 5 minutes
When to consult
