Lockjaw -- also known as tetanus -- is an extremely serious disease that can result in a person's death if it is not treated. Fortunately, the condition is rare, since most people are immunized against tetanus as a child, according to the New York State Department of Health. Although true lockjaw is not related to caffeine consumption, certain other conditions that are characterized by some degree of jaw tension or stiffness may be related to your caffeine intake.
Lockjaw
Lockjaw, or tetanus, is a nervous system infection caused by the Clostridium tetani bacteria, not by caffeine intake. Clostridium tetani lives worldwide in the intestinal tracts of both humans and animals and in the ground. Cuts, burns and similar breaks in the skin are common entry points for the bacteria. Tetanus sufferers generally experience gradually worsening symptoms that range from headache and generally restlessness to muscle spasms that gradually cause the jaw muscles to lock up, preventing the jaw from opening. Other muscles throughout the body, however, are also affected.
Lockjaw Treatment
Children generally receive a battery of four immunizations to prevent tetanus before they turn 2 years old, and one more booster shot at age 11. Doctors recommend that everyone receive follow-up boosters every 10 years to maintain immunity. A person without the immunization who contracts tetanus is generally treated with antitoxin and antibiotic medication. A patient who is having difficulty breathing may need artificial respiration.
Muscle Spasms
Although true lockjaw, or tetanus, is not affected by caffeine intake, people may suffer from similar muscle spasms that can also lead to unusual jaw tension in some cases. According to MedlinePlus, these muscle spasms or twitches can be caused by high caffeine intake, along with many other potential causes, including stress, dehydration or a reaction to medication. Consuming more than about 500 milligrams of caffeine per day can increase your risk for dehydration, which may cause muscle spasms or twitches, potentially affecting your jaw.
Muscle Spasms Treatment
Staying relaxed, well-hydrated and avoiding the overuse of stimulants like caffeine can help prevent many cases of muscle spasms, including those that affect the muscles of the jaw. You should seek medical help if you still experience muscle spasms; your doctor may use a variety of treatments depending on the cause of your condition, including muscle relaxers or anti-seizure drugs in serious cases.
