Abstract

Ophthalmodynia periodica is also referred to as "ice-pick headache", "needle-in-the-eye syndrome", and "sharp short-lived head pain." Ophthalmodynia periodica is considered a primary headache disorder, so it is not caused by any other conditions. Another well-known name for ophthalmodynia periodica is "jabs and jolts syndrome."

Classification

The International Headache Society classifies ophthalmodynia periodica as a primary stabbing headache.

Diagnostic criteria

The following diagnostic criteria are given for ophthalmodynia periodica:

1. Head pain occurring as a single stab or a series of stabs

2. Solely felt in the areas surrounding the eyes and temples

3. Pain lasting only a few seconds with irregular frequency

4. No additional symptoms

5. "Not attributed to another disorder"

Epidemiology

Ophthalmodynia periodica was first discovered by a doctor in 1964, where the disorder was first referred to as ophthalmodynia periodica. Since then, the disorder has been referred to as idiopathic stabbing headache.

Cause

Ophthalmodynia periodica does not have a confirmed cause, being a primary headache, but can be identified with other primary conditions. "As many as 40% of all individuals with ice pick headaches have also been diagnosed as suffering with some form of migraine headache."