Caffeine is known to drive away lethargy and provide a boost on the alertness level, but using too much can lead to undesirable side effects. Aside from coffee and tea, caffeine is naturally present in cocoa in dark chocolate and milk chocolate as well as an additive in energy drinks, soft drinks and coffee-flavored ice cream. The mild addictive nature of caffeine can lead to headaches once the individual reduces or stops the intake of the substance.
What are the effects of caffeine?
The consumption of this well known substance will stimulate the neurological activity in the brain and body and results to the constriction of the blood vessels as well as increasing the heart rate. Take note that the effects can either be mild or extreme depending on the amount of caffeine ingested and the sensitivity level. Since the heart tends to beat faster and due to the increased blood volume pushed against the constricted blood vessels, the blood pressure will go up momentarily when caffeinated beverages are consumed. In some circumstances, the consumption of caffeine can lead to atrial tachycardia which is an excessively rapid heartbeat.
Amount of caffeine
The moderate amount of caffeine which is 200-300 mg in a day is about 16-oz. The intense and dark brews from premium coffee vendors can contain an even higher amount of caffeine. A high intake of caffeine over 600 mg in a day might not be enough to trigger a heart attack, but the elevated heartbeat and pounding sensation in the chest might be perceived that the individual is having one. The heightened anxiety level along with restlessness due to high intake of caffeine can worsen the symptoms.
Possible interactions
There are some over-the-counter pain medications that contain caffeine and certain drugs can intensify the effect of caffeine. Antibiotics such as norfloxacin and ciprofloxacin can disrupt with the breakdown of caffeine in the system, thus the individual no longer feels the effects when these drugs are taken.
Bronchodilators which open up the airways have the similar effects as caffeine on the heart, thus the combination can intensify the effects of caffeine. The usual symptoms include nausea and a pounding heart.
Considerations to bear in mind
Prolonged overuse of caffeine along with high blood pressure, bad diet and smoking can lead to heart disease. Once the heart beats in an inefficient manner due to the erratic beats or reduced vigor, blood can accumulate in the heart, resulting to the formation of blood clots, stroke or a heart attack. Take note that consumption of caffeine in moderate amounts is not harmful but if the individual has a current heart disease or erratic heartbeat, a doctor must be consulted if caffeine can be consume or must be avoided in all forms. You can be prepared to handle heart issues by enrolling in a course on first aid today in your area.