Caffeine intoxication -- more commonly called a caffeine overdose -- may occur if you consume more than 500mg to 600mg caffeine daily. Though caffeine may help keep you awake and energized, too much of this stimulant may be bad for your health. Consult a doctor if you develop any signs and symptoms of a caffeine overdose. In severe cases, a caffeine overdose may cause fatal medical complications.
Stomach Irritation
Consuming too much caffeine may cause stomach-related symptoms, such as nausea, vomiting or diarrhea. Frequent bowel movements may also occur in conjunction with appetite loss or stomach cramping or pain. If you experience persistent diarrhea or vomiting, contact your physician. These symptoms may elevate your risk of developing dehydration.
Difficulty Sleeping
Caffeine is a central nervous system stimulant that helps you stay awake by increasing nerve signaling throughout your body. If you take an overdose of this stimulant, you may experience difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep -- a symptom referred to as insomnia. Persistent sleeping problems may also cause daytime fatigue, which may hinder your ability to remain attentive and alert during daily responsibilities. Seek additional care from your doctor if you experience recurrent sleeping problems that continue for more than a few days.
Excessive Thirst or Urination
This stimulant is also a diuretic and stimulates your body to release fluid in the form of urine. Consequently, excessive caffeine consumption may cause increased or frequent urination. You may also feel thirstier than usual due to increased urine excretion, Drugs.com reports. Talk with your doctor if frequent urination or excessive thirst is accompanied by unusual weight loss or urinary pain. These symptoms may be signs of high blood sugar or a bladder infection.
Muscle Tremors or Heart Rate Changes
Excessive caffeine consumption may also cause your muscles to contract irregularly, leading to symptoms of shakiness or muscle tremors. Your heart rate may also increase, which may cause shortness of breath, dizziness or chest discomfort. Extremely high doses of caffeine may cause life-threatening heart rate changes requiring immediate medical care, MedlinePlus warns. Contact your doctor promptly if you experience sudden or severe chest discomfort. This symptom of a caffeine overdose may also be signs of a heart attack.
Mood Changes
Mood-related changes, such as anxiety, irritability or nervousness, may occur if you consume too much caffeine. Typically, mood changes are accompanied by additional overdose symptoms, such as stomach discomfort or insomnia.
Member Comments