Ever experienced Brain Freeze also known as an ice cream headache? The onset of this headache can come from eating something cold like ice cream or from drinking something cold. Headaches caused by sudden cold to the mouth usually only last a short time and can even be avoided with a few simple tricks. First off though let’s discuss exactly how this headache starts.

Your palate is also called the roof of your mouth and when you eat or drink something it usually touches your palate. When something very cold touches your palate the cold temperature from that food or liquid can set off the nerves that are connected with the flow of blood to your head. The nerves respond by causing the blood vessels in the head to swell up quickly which, in turn, will cause your head to pound like a headache. Usually this brain freeze or ice cream headache will only last a few minutes and will fade away on its own without the need of any type of medication.

Here are some tips to help prevent brain freeze from occurring:
*try to keep the cold food or liquid near the front of your mouth
*warm the roof of your mouth with your tongue
*eat cold foods slowly, allowing them to adjust temperature wise
*sip lukewarm water while eating something cold
*take small breaks between bites while eating something cold
*warm up the liquid or food in the front of your mouth before swallowing

Usually this type of quick headache pain is not the result of anything serious but if you are a migraine sufferer this could be considered a trigger so it is good to be aware of food temperatures. If you follow some of the tips given in this article you should be able to enjoy that cold beverage or cold treat without the risk of an ice cream headache.