Type 28: Brain Freeze Headache
Brain freeze headaches, also known as ice cream headaches or cold-stimulus headaches, are triggered by the rapid consumption of cold foods or beverages, such as ice cream or slushies. The pain is typically described as a sharp, stabbing sensation that affects the forehead or temples and lasts for a brief period, usually less than a minute.
Brain freeze headaches are caused by the rapid constriction and dilation of blood vessels in the roof of the mouth in response to the cold stimulus. To prevent brain freeze headaches, it is important to consume cold foods and beverages slowly and avoid placing them directly on the roof of the mouth.
If a brain freeze headache does occur, pressing your tongue against the roof of your mouth or sipping warm water can help alleviate the pain by warming the affected area and promoting blood vessel dilation. (28)
