Biological Effects Of Caffeine Withdrawal

Caffeine is a stimulant found in many products. Coffees, teas and sodas contain high amounts of caffeine and in many people who use these products, addiction to the stimulant may follow excessive or prolonged consumption. Additionally, many over the counter medications for migraines contain caffeine as an adjutant to pain relief. Many symptoms which may present during caffeine withdrawal after caffeine consumption has reduced greatly or completely ceased remain mild and short in duration.

Headaches

Headaches plague many people who undergo caffeine withdrawal. According to the Northwestern Health Sciences University, caffeine exists in many over the counter migraine medications because in small amounts it enhances pain relieving effects of the main active ingredients. Someone experiencing caffeine withdrawal may suffer from headaches which range in severity from mild to severe. These headaches usually pass within a few days.

Fatigue

According to John Hopkins Bayview Medical Center, fatigue commonly occurs during caffeine withdrawal. Users may experience drowsiness and lethargy and in rare cases people undergoing withdrawal have been unable to function normally until the caffeine has completely left the body.

Irritability

John Hopkins Bayview Medical Center reports that caffeine withdrawal may produce mild to severe irritability. This symptom may be coupled with feelings of sadness and misery. People undergoing caffeine withdrawal may also experience a feeling of depression which usually resolves in a few days.

Anxiety

As caffeine leaves the body during caffeine withdrawal, the user may experience anxiety according to Yoga Journal. Anxiety may present with panic attacks in rare cases and the user may feel jittery and experience mild tremors in the hands. This symptom usually resolves within a few days.

Flu-Like Symptoms

People going through caffeine withdrawal may experience flu-like symptoms, states the John Hopkins Bayview Medical Center. One common symptom in this category is nausea with or without vomiting. Users may also experience sore or aching muscles, cold spells, and hot flashes.