We’ve all been there—enjoying a delicious ice-cold treat on a warm day, only to be jolted by a sudden, sharp headache. Yes, the dreaded brain freeze! But have you ever stopped to wonder what exactly causes this all-too-familiar sensation?
What is Brain Freeze?
Commonly referred to as an “ice cream headache,” brain freeze occurs when something cold touches the roof of the mouth (palate). While it’s named after the most iconic culprit—ice cream—it can be triggered by any chilly consumable, from slushies to frozen cocktails.
The Science Behind the Shiver
Our mouth is home to many blood vessels, particularly the palate. When something cold comes into contact with these vessels, they constrict and then dilate once they start to warm up again. This rapid change sends pain signals to the brain, giving rise to the sharp headache we know all too well.
Factful Freezing
- Did you know that 78% of people have experienced brain freeze at least once in their lives?
- Brain freeze is technically called sphenopalatine ganglioneuralgia.
- Surprisingly, not everyone experiences brain freeze. Scientists are still puzzled as to why some are more susceptible than others!
Combating the Cold
If you’re looking to enjoy your icy treat without the aftershock, try pressing your tongue against the roof of your mouth to warm it up. This can counteract the rapid cooling and potentially stave off the brain freeze. Drinking something warmer can also help combat the chilly aftermath.
Wrap-Up
While brain freeze can be a literal pain, understanding the science behind it can help us navigate these chilly waters more confidently. And remember, there’s always a warm beverage waiting for you on the other side!
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