Ice pick headaches are a type of headache disorder that causes unexpected, sharp, stabbing pains. Primary stabbing headaches have no underlying cause. They’re difficult to treat because the pain lasts just a few seconds. You can take steps to prevent headaches. Show
OverviewWhat is an ice pick headache (primary stabbing headache)?An ice pick headache is an uncommon headache disorder. It causes a sudden, sharp, stabbing head pain (or a quick series of pains). This pain comes on unexpectedly and lasts a few seconds. People who have these headaches equate the pain to being stabbed in the head or eye with an ice pick. The medical term for ice pick headaches is stabbing headaches. Other terms include:
How common are ice pick headaches?Some studies suggest that only about 2% of people worldwide experience these headaches. But one Norwegian study found that 1 in 3 people had ice pick headaches. Who is at risk for ice pick headaches?People of all ages and genders can get ice pick headaches. Women who get migraine headaches are more prone to them. In 1 in 3 instances, the ice pick headache occurs in the spot where migraine pain originates. Symptoms and CausesWhat causes ice pick headaches?Experts aren’t sure why some people get ice pick headaches. All types of headaches have primary and secondary causes:
What are the symptoms of ice pick headaches?An ice pick headache may cause a single stabbing pain or a series of quick pains. In 8 out of 10 instances, each stabbing pain lasts less than three seconds. These head pains:
Diagnosis and TestsHow are ice pick headaches diagnosed?Your healthcare provider can diagnose ice pick headaches based on your symptoms. Rarely, ice pick headaches are a sign of an underlying problem like a brain tumor. Your provider may order an MRI or another imaging test to check for health conditions. But most people with ice pick headaches don’t need this type of testing. Your healthcare provider will also want to rule out other headache disorders that cause similar symptoms. These include:
Management and TreatmentHow are ice pick headaches managed or treated?Ice pick headaches disappear quickly. They aren’t like other headaches or migraines, which can last for hours or linger for days. There isn’t time to take pain relievers to treat ice pick headaches. By the time the medicine kicks in, the ice pick headache is long gone. Instead, treatments focus on preventing pain. Preventive steps include:
PreventionHow can I prevent an ice pick headache?The same steps you might take to prevent other headaches or migraines may also lower your risk of ice pick headaches. Don’t overdo it with pain medicine. You can develop medication overuse or rebound headaches. You can also:
Outlook / PrognosisWhat is the prognosis (outlook) for people who have ice pick headaches?Ice pick headaches come and go quickly. They aren’t as debilitating as chronic migraines or headaches. Still, you should see your healthcare provider if head pain lasts several days or interferes with your ability to work or complete daily activities. Living WithWhen should I call the doctor?You should call your healthcare provider if you experience stabbing head pain and:
What questions should I ask my doctor?You may want to ask your healthcare provider:
A note from Cleveland Clinic Because ice pick headaches happen sporadically and go away so quickly, many people don’t tell their healthcare providers about them. But these headaches may be more than a painful nuisance. In rare instances, they’re a sign of a more serious problem. You should share your symptoms with your provider. They can find what’s causing the pain and work with you to prevent head pains. Share Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Email Print Last reviewed by a Cleveland Clinic medical professional on 08/25/2021. References
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When should I worry about right sided head pain?If you're getting headaches only on one side of your head you shouldn't worry, but you should make an appointment with your doctor. One-sided headaches can mean different things. But they often point to a group of disorders that will need a thorough exam to provide treatment.
What does a brain tumor headache feel like?They are often described as dull, "pressure-type" headaches, though some patients also experience sharp or "stabbing" pain. They can be localized to a specific area or generalized. They can be made worse with coughing, sneezing or straining.
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