Coffee is a very popular drink for adults. Coffee itself does not lead to addiction, but caffeine in it can cause dependence on those who drink too much.
Caffeine in coffee
Regardless of whether someone shows signs or symptoms of caffeine dependence, addiction depends on the amount of coffee you receive over a certain period of time. The amounts of caffeine vary in the different types of coffee - in espresso is the most, and in the shorter.
Caffeine intoxication and addiction
There is a disagreement between whether caffeine addiction is a problem or not. In the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual for Mental Disorders, caffeine intoxication is included, but there is no caffeine dependence, the word used to add coffee. Some specialists recognize caffeine intoxication and excess caffeine for addiction.
Signs and symptoms of caffeine intoxication
According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual for Mental Disorders, caffeine intoxication occurs when a substance is taken with effects that are reversible when the substance leaves the body. The substance disturbs behavior and mood with more than 250 ml intake, then coffee should not be taken. During or after taking coffee, five of the following are present: anxiety, nervousness, excitement, insomnia, flushing, frequent urination, digestive tract problems, muscular tics, confused thoughts and speech, irregular heartbeat, fatigue and inadequacy movements. Symptoms cause distress. Nausea, headache, tremor and seizures may occur. In extreme cases, caffeine intoxication can be life-threatening.
Signs and symptoms of caffeine addiction and abstinence
The argument that caffeine leads to addiction is based on evidence that a person may become caffeine-dependent, may reach tolerance, and symptoms of withdrawal may occur when a person does not take the dose. Tolerance means that a person increases the dose of more and more caffeine to achieve the desired effect. Symptoms of withdrawal may occur 12 to 24 hours after stopping caffeine and often start with a headache. Other symptoms include irritability, fatigue, difficulty concentrating, depression, muscle aches, stiffness and decreased ability to perform tasks. The abstinence can last from 2 days to one week. It is recommended that the caffeine is gradually reduced to reduce the withdrawal symptoms.