Caffeine-related headaches 

How does Caffeine related Headache occur?

One of the most popular psychoactive drugs around the world is caffeine. It is present in various drinks and foods. It acts on the CNS(Central Nervous System) as a stimulant since it belongs to the Methylxanthine group. These stimulants play the following roles:

• Metabolism gets speeded up
• Urine production is  increased
• Helps in the improvement of digestion
• Increased rate of heart
• Increases the level of alertness
• The physical performance is highly enhanced
• Some compounds derived from caffeine are also used for treating certain cancers.

Caffeine has a vasoconstrictive effect which means that it can narrow down the blood vessels and reduce the flow of blood. The individuals who are habituated with the regular consumption of caffeine become very familiar with the constriction. As soon as the person stops the caffeine intake on a regular basis, it can trigger a rebound effect. It causes the blood vessels to widen.

Caffeine contributes to the blockage of the Adenosine receptors which are the pain receptors in the brain. As soon as the caffeine consumption is stopped, it leads to a chronic headache.

What are the symptoms related to Caffeine Related Headaches?

There are various symptoms related to Caffeine related headaches. The symptoms completely depend upon the cause of the caffeine-related headache. The most common symptoms are listed below:

• You can experience various skin problems like hives, eczema, rashes, acne and severe itching.
• Chronic headaches and migraines
• Depression and anxiety
• Panic attacks 
• Loss of memory
• Irregular heartbeat
• Swelling of throat, glands, tongue
• The shift of focus i.e.touble in concentrating
• Irritable mood or bad mood
• Fatigue and  tiredness
• Dizziness
• Extreme Jitters 
• Pain in the chest
• Feeling of numbness in the face, hand and feet
• Muscle pain
• Shortness of breath 
• Hallucinations 
• Flu or cold-like symptoms
• Problems of vision like blurry vision or double vision
• Swollen eyes and puffiness of the face
• Excessive talking
• Increased or elevated blood pressure
• Nauseatic and vomiting feeling
• Sweating
• Cardiac Arrest

What are the procedures of the diagnosis for the caffeine-related headaches?

The procedures which are most commonly used for the diagnosis of the caffeine Related Headaches are as follows

CT Scan

Computer Tomography(CT) Scan helps in producing a clear image of the cross-section of the body in a computer by using the X-rays. This method is very helpful in ruling out the causes of the headache with the same kind of symptoms.

MRI

Magnetic Resonance Imaging is the method that is used for producing clear pictures or images of the brain with a large magnet and  Radiofrequency(RF). If you are getting almost daily headaches, MRI is recommended highly.

Blood test

The blood test is very helpful in determining the amount of caffeine in the blood of an individual. The levels of caffeine in the blood are very helpful in indicating if the headache is caused due to the abnormal caffeine content in the blood.

Urine analysis

Urine analysis can also be used for detecting the levels of caffeine in the body.

What are the treatments available for the Caffeine Related Headache?

There are various treatments which are available for the Caffeine Related headache. Some of the most common treatments for the Caffeine Related Headache are as follows:

• Rehydration is a very common way of chasing away headaches.
• Resting and sleeping are the best ways to find relief from headaches.
• Taking OTC(Over the Counter) pain reliever helps in the treatment of the Caffeine Related Headache.
• Using a cold compress such as ice packs helps in reducing pain.

What are the prevention methods of the Caffeine Related Headache?

The prevention methods of the Caffeine Related Headache are:

• Stop overdosing on caffeine
• Rehydrate a lot
• Be very cautious while administering the OTC(Over The Counter) medications.
• People who are more sensitive to caffeine should be having a controlled intake of caffeine.
• The individuals who are caffeine allergic should completely avoid the intake of coffee.

References