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Often Unmentioned: the Icepick Headache

by Terra Atrill

As if migraine sufferers need another pain, the semi-undocumented icepick headache can affect 40% of them. Described sometimes as the “suicide headache” this pain can be excruciating and sudden, and then disappear before treatment, or even assessment, can take place.

They typically last from five seconds to a minute and can strike a few times a day, but normally do not occur all day. The pain is paralyzing for some, striking normally behind or in the eye orbit, temple or parietal areas - as if, you guessed it, an icepick was being stabbed into their brain.

At least they usually exist outside of migraine pain. But because of the sudden onset and withdrawal of the pain, preventative medication is generally the only option for those severely affected.

Some sources say that they can also be linked to cluster headaches. All sources did not have a cause or make mention of the headaches’ cause being a mystery.

As always, if you experience a sudden, new type of pain, see your doctor for assessment to rule out anything that could be causing it.

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