Caffeine is a stimulant produced naturally in many plants. Synthetic forms are also manufactured to be used as food additives. Normal caffeine usage ranges between 200 and 300 mg or the equivalent of 2 to 3 cups of coffee. Excessive use of more than 500 to 600 mg per day can lead to a variety of side effects. Caffeine is found in coffee, soft drinks, tea and over the counter stimulants.
Inability to Sleep
As with any stimulant, excessive amounts of caffeine will cause disruptions in sleep patterns. Several over the counter medications, including some pain relievers, contain caffeine. Taking more than the recommended dosage or taking them to stay awake can cause long-term bouts of insomnia. Consuming large amounts of coffee or energy drinks that contain caffeine and amino acids will produce a jittery, wide awake feeling that can last up to several hours, according to MedSafe. Too many of these drinks over an extended period of time, will cause altered sleep patterns and may cause you to crash as the jitteriness wears off.
Irregular Heartbeat
Caffeine is a stimulant that directly affects the central and peripheral nervous systems, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. This also affects the heart and other organs throughout the body. Too much caffeine will cause the heart to pump faster and increase your heartbeat. Irregularities in your heartbeat are also a possibility. Increasing the amount of caffeine you consume will place stress on the heart and make it work harder than it needs to. Consuming excessive amounts of caffeine on a regular basis is addictive and may cause withdrawal symptoms if you stop suddenly. Gradually reducing the amount of caffeine that is ingested on a daily basis, will allow your heart to gradually resume a normal pattern.
Irritability
Excessive amounts of caffeine will cause irritability, nervousness, and, in some cases, dizziness and the inability to focus and remain alert, according to Drugs.com. The stimulant properties in caffeine cause an exaggerated state of awareness. This can lead to panic attacks, bouts of increased irritation and hallucinations. Too much caffeine causes headaches and stomach irritation that can lead to frustration and the inability to think rationally. If you have ingested too much caffeine or is suffering from caffeine poisoning, call the National Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222. There are professionals at this number 24 hours a day, 7 days a week that can assist you when dealing with this type of poisoning.
Diuretic
Caffeine is a known diuretic, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Excessive amounts will cause increased urination and possibly, discomfort around the kidneys. Too much caffeine will also cause you to be thirstier than normal. If urination increases, and fluid intake does not, this will cause dehydration. Dehydration can lead to muscle aches, cramping and digestive upsets. Consuming too much caffeine in hot weather will also dehydrate the body. Fluids will be lost due to sweating as well as to an increase in urine flow. Drinking fluids that do not contain caffeine will reduce the risk of dehydration.
