Ice brain, more commonly known as brain freeze, is a short, intense headache. It occurs in the front part of your head after you eat or drink something very cold, or breathe in freezing air.
What Triggers Brain Freeze?
According to research, brain freeze is triggered by:
- Consuming frozen or slushy drinks.
- Eating extremely cold foods like ice cream.
- Breathing freezing air.
How Does It Feel?
The pain from brain freeze is:
- Brief: It typically lasts for a few seconds to a few minutes.
- Intense: It can feel like a sharp, stabbing pain.
- Localized: It's usually felt in the forehead region.
What Causes Brain Freeze?
While the exact cause isn't fully understood, the prevailing theory suggests that the rapid change in temperature in your mouth and throat causes a sudden dilation and constriction of blood vessels, triggering pain receptors.
How to Avoid or Relieve Brain Freeze
While it's not always avoidable, there are ways to minimize or alleviate the discomfort:
- Sip slowly: Avoid gulping extremely cold drinks.
- Warm the palate: Press your tongue against the roof of your mouth to help raise the temperature.
- Pause: Briefly stop consuming the cold substance to give the blood vessels time to regulate.
Key Takeaways
| Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| Common Name | Brain freeze |
| Symptom | Brief, intense pain in the front of the head |
| Triggers | Extremely cold food, drinks, or air |
| Duration | Seconds to a few minutes |
| Relief | Warming the palate, slowing consumption |
