Ice pick headaches are a type of headache that cause sharp, stabbing pain in the head that lasts only a few seconds. They can occur sporadically once a day or several times a day, and they usually happen without warning. Here are some key points about ice pick headaches:

• Causes: The exact cause of ice pick headaches is not clear, but they are not brought on by disease or injury. People who are prone to migraines or cluster headaches are more likely to get ice pick headaches, but they can occur even if you dont normally have migraines. Certain things can trigger this type of headache, such as sudden movements, bright light, and stress.

• Symptoms: Ice pick headaches cause a single stabbing pain or a series of quick pains that move from front to back or back to front on the same side of the head. Each stabbing pain lasts less than three seconds, and they occur sporadically once a day or several times a day. There are no other symptoms beyond the pain itself.

• Diagnosis: Ice pick headaches are sometimes associated with other types of headaches, so they can be difficult to diagnose. Diagnosis is usually made based on the symptoms and a physical exam.

• Treatment: Ice pick headaches may come and go quickly, so they’re hard to treat. One medicine you might try to prevent an attack is indomethacin (Indocin, Tivorbex), which is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug. However, it could cause side effects like nausea, stomach bleeding, heartburn, and eye or kidney problems. Other treatments include nerve blocks, acupuncture, and relaxation techniques. It’s also a good idea to keep a headache diary to track your triggers.