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Consuming too much caffeine can lead to poisoning, resulting in negative side effects such as headaches, tremors, confusion, and even death. Symptoms can include dizziness, anxiety, and increased heart rate. Seeking emergency medical help is crucial, and prevention is key through monitoring caffeine intake and following dosing instructions.
Caffeine poisoning can occur when a person consumes an unsafe level of the drug in the form of coffee, sodas, energy drinks, chocolate, or medications. Caffeine is a stimulant that increases central nervous system activity and dilates blood vessels in the body. In small doses, it can provide a positive and temporary increase in alertness. Overdose of the substance, however, can result in headaches, tremors, confusion, and other negative side effects. Seizures, coma and even death can occur in severe cases of caffeine poisoning.
There is no set, universal amount of caffeine that is toxic for everyone. A person’s age, weight, health, and history with the substance all factor into when the effects of caffeine poisoning might occur. Consuming more than 500 milligrams of caffeine, about the amount found in six cups of coffee, is considered unsafe for most adults. Children and infants can develop caffeine poisoning symptoms at much lower doses. It is generally believed that consuming more than 10 grams of caffeine in a short period of time is most likely fatal.
Early symptoms of caffeine poisoning can include dizziness, anxiety, and increased heart rate. A person may also experience gastrointestinal problems, such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. If more caffeine is introduced into the body, an individual may develop chest pains, mental confusion, hand and leg tremors, and heart palpitations. It is possible to have a seizure or go into a coma when the body becomes overwhelmed by the stimulant.
If a person shows signs of caffeine poisoning, it is imperative to seek emergency medical help. Paramedics or emergency room personnel can evaluate breathing, heart rate, and brain activity and provide appropriate treatment to stabilize vital signs. Patients are often given intravenous fluids and charcoal tablets to counteract the toxicity of caffeine in their systems. You may need a stomach pump to remove large amounts of fluid. Additional medications and clinical techniques may be needed to lower the heart rate and prevent seizures.
Caffeine poisoning is almost always preventable. A person should take note of how much caffeine they are consuming when they drink coffee, tea, soda or energy drinks to avoid overdosing. It’s important to carefully follow the dosing instructions on over-the-counter and prescription medications that contain caffeine. Finally, chocolates and pills should always be kept out of the reach of children and babies.
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