Symptoms
Possible symptoms of caffeine withdrawal in dependent individuals include:
- Headache
- Fatigue, drowsiness, weakness, low energy.
- Attention and concentration disorders, drowsiness.
- Dissatisfaction, disgruntlement
- Irritability
- Flu-like symptoms, muscle pain
- Changes in blood pressure, rapid heartbeat
- Nausea, vomiting, constipation.
The discomfort may occur a few hours after caffeine abstinence and last a few to several days.
Causes
Caffeine is a stimulating and performance-enhancing methylxanthine, which is contained in varying concentrations in coffee, black tea, energy drinks and cola, among others. Regular consumption leads to psychological and physical dependence. Therefore, withdrawal symptoms are to be expected upon discontinuation. At the molecular level, this is explained by an increased number of adenosine receptors in the central nervous system in caffeine addicts. If caffeine is dropped, they are more sensitive to the normal effects of adenosine. Caffeine is an antagonist at the adenosine receptor.
Diagnosis
The diagnosis is usually easy to make. Affected individuals are those who regularly consume caffeine and suddenly stop or greatly reduce consumption.
Treatment
The symptoms can usually be resolved by reintroducing caffeine. Caffeine withdrawal headache can be treated with pain relievers such as ibuprofen. In addition, other symptomatic medications are available, for example, for nausea and vomiting. Drink enough fluids, get enough sleep and exercise. Also read our article on coffee withdrawal.