Caffeine overdose might occur if large amount of caffeine is ingested. Caffeine is a recognized stimulant present in various beverages, foods and other goods. It is commonly used to keep one alert and awake. The recommended amount is generally 400 mg daily for healthy adults. Nevertheless, the safe amount tends to vary based on the weight, age and overall health. This makes it difficult to know the precise amount of caffeine that can lead to overdose.
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Always bear in mind that caffeine overdose can be dangerous in severe cases but many might only experience some unpleasant symptoms that settle once caffeine is eliminated from the body.
Indications of caffeine overdose
Various symptoms arise and some might not immediately alert the individual that he/she had too much caffeine since they do not appear serious such as:
- Diarrhea
- Dizziness
- Fever
- Headache
- Increased thirst
- Insomnia
- Irritability
In some cases, the symptoms can become severe and necessitate medical care. Some of the serious symptoms of caffeine overdose include:
- Vomiting
- Difficulty breathing
- Hallucinations
- Chest pain
- Confusion
- Convulsions
- Erratic or rapid heartbeat
- Uncontrollable muscular movements
Management of caffeine overdose
The treatment is aimed on eliminating caffeine from the body while managing the symptoms. Activated charcoal might be given which is a common remedy for drug overdose that often prevents caffeine from moving into the GI tract.
In case caffeine already entered the GI tract, a laxative or gastric lavage might be recommended. Gastric lavage involves a tube to cleanse the contents out of the stomach. The doctor will select the method that effectively eliminates caffeine from the body.
During this period, the heart is monitored using an electrocardiogram. Breathing support might also be given if needed.
For mild symptoms, the individual should wait until caffeine is no longer present in the body or treat the overdose. Some home measures for caffeine overdose include mild exercise, increased intake of water and eating foods rich in magnesium or potassium such as dark leafy greens or bananas.
Remember though that home treatment might not always hasten the metabolism of caffeine. If the symptoms are severe, the individual should be taken to the nearest healthcare facility for immediate treatment.
Disclaimer / More Information
The information posted on this page on caffeine overdose is for learning and educational purposes only. To learn to recognize and manage this type of overdose, register for first aid training at one of our training centers located throughout Canada. The training centers are in Edmonton, Calgary, Vancouver, Kelowna, Saskatoon, Surrey, Winnipeg, Toronto, Ottawa and Halifax.