Brain freeze

Brain freeze is a common term for a phenomenon known as sphenopalatine ganglioneuralgia or ice-cream headache. It is a form of brief, intense headache associated with the rapid consumption of cold beverages or foods such as ice cream.

Causes

The exact cause of brain freeze is not fully understood. However, it is believed to result from a rapid change in temperature at the back of the throat, at the juncture of the internal carotid artery, which supplies blood to the brain, and the anterior cerebral artery, which is where brain tissue starts. This sudden temperature change causes these arteries to dilate and contract, a reaction that is thought to cause the intense pain of a brain freeze.

Symptoms

The symptoms of a brain freeze can vary between individuals. The pain is usually felt in the forehead or temples, and can last from a few seconds to a few minutes. The pain is usually sharp or stabbing, and ends as quickly as it begins.

Prevention and Treatment

The simplest way to avoid brain freeze is to consume cold foods and beverages slowly. If a brain freeze occurs, pressing the tongue against the roof of the mouth can help to warm the area and alleviate the pain. Drinking warm water can also have the same effect.

See Also

• Migraine
• Headache
• Ice cream

References

• Mayo Clinic
• WebMD
• National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke