When people consume caffeine regularly and then stop, they can experience caffeine withdrawal. Caffeine withdrawal can affect you physically and emotionally and can last up to one week or longer in extreme cases. No evidence has linked caffeine withdrawal with fatality. If you experience extreme physical distress or anxiety after consuming caffeine or quitting caffeine, speak with your doctor.
Problems with Caffeine
Consuming excessive caffeine can create physical and emotional distress. The amount of caffeine a person can consume comfortably varies depending on body mass, physical condition, diet and frequency of consumption. If you consume too much caffeine, you may experience mood swings, heart palpitations, anxiety, sleep disturbance and caffeine dependence. In extreme cases, you may suffer from caffeine intoxication, a condition that has resulted in fatality.
Sources of Caffeine
If you are attempting to reduce your caffeine intake or eliminate it, you have to consider all the forms it takes in your diet. Coffee, tea, hot chocolate and soft drinks are the most common culprits. Some pain relievers contain caffeine, as do many weight loss pills. Chocolate and some gums have caffeine. Energy drinks, stimulants and sports drinks often have high amounts of caffeine.
Caffeine WIthdrawal Symptoms
The most common symptom of caffeine withdrawal is a headache, which can range from gradual to sudden and throbbing. People who have reduced or eliminated caffeine often experience fatigue, lack of focus, lethargy, drowsiness and challenges with concentration. Mood changes with caffeine withdrawal include depression, anxiety and irritability. Physical responses can occur as well and may manifest as flu-like symptoms of nausea, muscle pain, muscle stiffness, heaviness in the limbs and chills. In extreme cases of caffeine withdrawal, people may have difficulty with physical coordination and cognitive functioning.
Severe Caffeine Withdrawal
People accustomed to high doses of caffeine who eliminate the drug may experience extreme symptoms. While the withdrawal won't kill you, it may completely incapacitate you. You will lose the ability to do basic functions such as driving, supervising your children or working. Physical and emotional impairment can lead you to be more accident-prone, which ultimately could result in fatality.
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