Caffeine is a widely used substance that is useful in moderation. MayoClinic.com notes that for most people, consuming less than 200 mg a day holds no serious negative effects; however, this is dependent upon the individual user. The content of caffeine varies on the substance. For instance, 6 oz of coffee can have up to 150 mg, whereas a 2 oz portion of dark chocolate may contain 30 mg of caffeine. For most people, caffeinated substances are used to get the benefit of immediate stimulation. However, negative effects are possible with caffeine use.
Pulse and Blood Pressure
The amount of caffeine consumed in one sitting makes a difference in the immediate effects. One 6 to 8 oz cup of coffee for instance, increases heart rate and body temperature, notes the University of Michigan Health Service. The short increase in blood pressure caused by caffeine is associated with caffeine causing the adrenal gland to release excess adrenaline while also widening the arteries. MayoClinic.com notes that for most, this is a temporary blood pressure increase not conducive to causing permanent hypertension. If you have an existing hypertension diagnosis, however, limited use of caffeine may prevent further health complications.
Anxiety and Jitters
In people with existing anxiety disorders, caffeine use will increase the likelihood of having panic attacks upon immediate use. Family Doctor notes that caffeine is a central nervous stimulant, which heightens the sense of anxiety by increasing the fight or flight response. Individuals without pre-existing anxiety disorders are also susceptible to experiencing mild anxiety if doses of 200 mg or more are consumed. Accompanying effects of anxiety from caffeine include restlessness, muscle jitters and irritability.
Alertness and Cognition
Increased wakefulness and feeling alert is a positive effect of caffeine, and the typical desired benefit of using caffeinated beverages. In some cases, increased alertness stimulates thought processes and productive behavior during caffeine intoxication, notes Johns Hopkins Bayview Medical Center. Overuse of caffeine however, leads to a rambling flow of thought, hyperactivity and psychomotor agitation. Caffeine intoxication resolves rapidly, typically within six hours after use, and the alertness and cognitive changes subside.
Moods and Headaches
Caffeine use in high dose can lead to immediate changes in mood, which appear as elation, energetic arousal and happiness. Johns Hopkins Bayview Medical Center indicates that this response is often the culprit in reinforcing continued caffeine use. However, the level of mood alteration experienced with continued use is typically less dramatic than the initial 200 mg consumed. Caffeine can cause headaches immediately after consumption, depending on level of tolerance to the dose ingested and sensitivity to the substance.
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