Caffeine pills are not harmless. They can cause insomnia, as well as many other serious physical and mental effects. As sufficient sleep is essential for optimal health, ingesting a substance that adversely affects the quality and quantity of it has many repercussions. Even a small reduction in sleep can affect energy level, mood and ability to think clearly. According to Helpguide.org, if you are not regularly getting eight hours of sleep every night, you are likely sleep deprived.
Caffeine Overview
Caffeine belongs to a category of medications called central nervous system stimulants. Its normal use is to provide alertness in cases of extreme fatigue. It is present in coffee, tea, soft drinks and a number of over-the-counter preparations. These products are available in powder or tablet form. The normal adult dosage of the powder is 200 mg, repeated no earlier than every three or four hours. Do not exceed 1,600 mg within a 24-hour period. The tablet dose is 100 to 200 mg, repeated no earlier than every three to four hours. Do not exceed 1,000 mg within a 24-hour period. Children under the age of 12 should not take caffeine products.
Research Links Caffeine With Sleep Deprivation
A study published in the April 2008 issue of "Sleep Medicine Reviews" explored the effects of caffeine on sleep. The results showed that habitual caffeine consumption disturbs nighttime sleep and contributes to daytime sleepiness. Investigators in the study contend that doctors and the general population underestimate coffee's detrimental effect on sleep and alertness.
Caffeine Pills Side Effects
Cardiovascular effects include fast heartbeat, irregular heartbeat and palpitations. Symptoms involving the central nervous system include insomnia, nervousness and restlessness. Other neurological effects are tremors, headaches and lightheadedness. Gastrointestinal reactions consist of nausea, vomiting and diarrhea.
Aside from these reactions, pills containing caffeine citrate can cause other adverse reactions as well. Effects of this drug include kidney failure, brain bleeding and gastrointestinal bleeding.
Discontinue the caffeine pills if you experience a fast or irregular heart rate. You should also stop taking the drug if you have insomnia, dizziness or nervousness.
Caffeine Overdosage Effects
Never take more than the recommended dosage. Overdosage of caffeine is a very serious medical condition that can be fatal. Symptoms include vomiting, agitation and irregular heartbeat. Other signs involve seizures, kidney failure and fluid in the lungs. It can affect the levels of substances in the blood, causing high sugar levels and low potassium levels. Caffeine can also cause serious metabolic disturbances, such as ketosis and acidosis.
Sleep Deprivation Effects
General effects of sleep deprivation include fatigue, lethargy and poor motivation. Mental effects involve impaired concentration, memory problems and reduced problem-solving skills. Emotional results of insufficient sleep include moodiness, irritability and impaired ability to cope with stress. The condition lowers immunity, resulting in more colds and infections. Sleep deprivation causes an increased risk of accidents because it has a detrimental influence on motor skills, as well as alertness. Poor sleep is also associated with increased risk of diabetes, heart disorders and other health problems.
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