We don't understand completely what causes the throbbing head or face pain that some people feel when they take a bite of ice cream or swallowing other cold substances. It most likely has to do with the sudden cold shock sent to the warm tissues of the mouth and throat. Sensations of discomfort are then carried by various nerves from the front of the mouth and the back of the throat to other parts of the head, and lasts less than five minutes. Although there is no treatment for these types of headaches, you can avoid them. Eat more slowly and in smaller amounts. Allow ice cream to melt in your mouth before swallowing, this helps cool off the warm tissues in your mouth gradually.