Short Wave Micro Wave: What Is 'Brain Freeze'?
Jul 9, 2021
Dive into the quirky world of brain freeze, where a tasty popsicle can lead to a sudden headache! Hear from neuroscientist Caroline Palavicino-Maggio as she unravels the science behind these ice cream-induced pains. The conversation is filled with humor, personal anecdotes, and listener curiosities about the phenomenon. Plus, there's a touching farewell as the team reflects on the contributions of a beloved host, highlighting the importance of community and shared experiences in science communication.
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Brain Freeze Competition
- Britt Hansen interviewed neuroscientist Caroline Palavicino-Maggio about brain freeze.
- Maggio's children have brain freeze competitions to see who can get a cold headache first.
Brain Freeze Explained
- Brain freeze, technically called sphenopalatine ganglioneuralgia, is a short-lived headache.
- It's triggered by consuming cold things too quickly.
Cause of Brain Freeze
- Sensitive nerves and blood vessels in the mouth react to cold temperatures.
- They constrict and expand rapidly, sending a pain signal to the brain via the trigeminal nerve.