1. Ice cream. “Brain freeze” occurs when cold food touches the roof of your mouth, possibly altering blood flow in the brain or causing pain on a major nerve. This sends pain signals, which usually last less than a minute, throughout the face.
2. Sex. It’s unusual, but sexual activity, especially orgasm, can trigger severe head pain. This is usually nothing to worry about, but see a doctor if the pain recurs.
3. A growing problem. Secondary headaches — those caused by a tumor or an aneurysm — are rare. If you’re over the age of 50 and your headaches are new or worsen over time, see a doctor.