Caffeine is a stimulant that passes through your bloodstream and enters the central nervous system, where it activates your brain and nerves. This is what makes caffeinated beverages so effective at providing a morning jolt of energy; the chemical increases mental focus and alertness and helps you overcome fatigue. Despite its ability to make you feel energized, though, there is no evidence that caffeine use results in nerve damage.
Taking Caffeine
Users of caffeine have a lot of liberty in terms of how much caffeine they consume. Some 200 to 300 milligrams of caffeine -- the equivalent of two to four cups of coffee -- is considered a moderate daily dose of caffeine. The Mayo Clinic considers caffeine consumption in excess of 500 to 600 milligrams to be heavy caffeine use that could be accompanied by unwanted side effects and long-term risks. Caffeine stays in the body for up to six hours after consumption.
Side Effects
Several short-term side effects can result from caffeine use, including a racing heart, anxiety, insomnia, nausea, restlessness, tremors, frequent urination and vomiting, according to Medline Plus. Long-term risks can include the loss of bone density due to caffeine's prevention of calcium absorption, and the development of painful, lumpy breasts, a condition known as fibrocystic disease. However, caffeine does not pose a risk to the nervous system.
Nervous System Effects
Although caffeine stimulates the brain and your nerves, there are no reported long-term risks to your nervous system. You should use caffeine moderately to avoid the other risks associated with high caffeine use, but taking even large amounts of caffeine will not result in nerve damage.
Considerations
Talk to your doctor if you are concerned about caffeine's effects on your body. In general, the less caffeine you consume the less likely you are to develop health complications related to caffeine use. Tremors can be the result of caffeine overstimulating the nerves and causing uncontrolled shaking, but these side effects should wear off over time. If tremors persist much longer after caffeine has left the body, talk to your doctor.
