Most of us couldn’t think of kickingstart our day without that stimulative cup of steaming freshly brewed coffee. However, though this morning ritual is quite beneficial, when it’s abused, it can bring discomfort and even damage to your health. But can drinking coffee cause shortness of breath?
According to a 2019 study, research has shown that too much caffeine can make it tougher for your lungs to function. This has been demonstrated by increased difficulty in breathing and shortness of breath. Though it might seem a bit absurd, too much coffee can cause your airways to constrict, which is a separate effect from an asthma attack and can cause shortness of breath.
The amount of caffeine that triggers shortness of breath may be different for each individual. Slight sensations of breathlessness may appear after drinking three cups of coffee, while the same symptoms could appear after just one cup for others. So it’s important to closely monitor how much coffee you drink to avoid any potential breathing issues.
Caffeine works in the body by activating endocannabinoid receptors. This means that it affects the nervous system, which is responsible for the alteration in respiration rate and the perception of breathlessness that usually occurs after drinking too much coffee. Also, caffeine works as a diuretic, meaning it increases urine production and forces water out of the body, thus leading to dehydration.
It is also believed that coffee can worsen pre-existing conditions that are associated with respiratory issues, such as asthma and bronchitis. The particular combination of caffeine and pre-existing conditions can lead to an exacerbation of the symptoms, resulting in shortness of breath.
When it comes to experts’ opinions, Stephen Rice, MD, an assistant professor of medicine at the Keck School of Medicine of USC believes that caffeine can indeed trigger a feeling of shortness of breath. He recommends that those who have respiratory issues limit their consumption of coffee or even choose decaf. He also advises that if it becomes unbearable, it’s best to speak with a doctor.
Taking into account all this information, it is possible to state that drinking excessive amounts of coffee can cause shortness of breath. The amount of caffeine that triggers these symptoms varies from individual to individual, so it’s best to know your limits and keep an eye out for any potential signs of distress.
Influence On Blood Oxygen Levels
When it comes to potential long-term implications, there has been evidence that drinking coffee can alter your blood oxygen levels. This can affect individuals with chronic respiratory issues, particularly COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease). The changes in oxygen levels come from the blocking of certain chemicals that allow oxygen to pass through your lungs.
An observational study conducted in 2019 showed a direct correlation between excessive caffeine consumption and a decrease in blood oxygen saturation levels. It concluded that drinking more than three cups of coffee a day can bring a 2% drop in oxygen levels as well as increasing the levels of hypoxemia.
Further research has also suggested that coffee may cause an increase in blood pressure, which could lead to a feeling of breathlessness as well. Though this generally occurs in those with pre-existing hypertension, even young and healthy people can experience shortness of breath after consuming too much caffeine.
American College of Cardiology cardiologist Arthur Agatston explains that the more caffeine people consume, the more their blood pressure and heart rate increase.
He suggests resting for a few minutes after drinking too much coffee to relax the muscles and give the heart a break. Interestingly, research has also revealed that drinking more than four cups of coffee a day may reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.
Role of Caffeine in Weight Gain
Caffeine can also affect other areas of health. It has an effect on the metabolism, which can lead to an increase or decrease in physical activity. Furthermore, it can cause weight gain, as it triggers the release of cortisol, the stress hormone. This in turn can lead to further health issues, such as high blood pressure, fatigue, anxiety, and depression.
Hypothyroidism is also a potential side effect of drinking too much coffee. This condition is caused by decreased thyroid hormone production, which can lead to weight gain, poor concentration, and fatigue.
It’s important to exercise caution when consuming caffeine, as it can have a strong influence on the body. Research suggests that further research needs to be done in order to understand the effects of caffeine on the body so that proper recommendations can be made.
Sleep Deprivation from Excess Coffee
Coffee can unsurprisingly keep you awake, which can affect your sleeping habits in the long run and might cause more serious problems. Researchers suggest that there are multiple factors that can lead to sleep deprivation.
It’s important to note that caffeine has a half-life of around 6 hours, which means that it takes around 12 hours for it to be completely metabolized. Caffeine affects the cortisol levels in the body, which can lead to insomnia.
Chronic sleep deprivation can lead to a wide range of issues, both physical and mental, such as anxiety, difficulty concentrating, irritability, decreased libido, and lowered immunity.
Harvard Health shows that even though caffeine has been found to improve alertness and performance, it can also lead to anxiousness, nervousness, and even restlessness. As such, drinking too much coffee can cause problems for those who have trouble sleeping.
Sensitivity To Caffeine
It should be noted that those with sensitivity to caffeine can experience shorterness of breath. If you are particularly sensitive to caffeine, it is best to reduce your intake if you feel shortness of breath.
Caffeine sensitivity can range from mild to moderate. Those with mild sensitivity may notice a few minor symptoms, such as a slight headache or racing heart. Those with moderate caffeine sensitivity, however, may experience more pronounced symptoms, such as headache and fatigue.
Those with caffeine sensitivity can also experience racing thoughts, jitteriness, and an inability to focus. You may feel breathless when your body is unable to metabolize and process the caffeine properly.
Overall, it is important to be aware of individual caffeine sensitivity and of how much caffeine you are consuming in order to avoid any potential symptoms. Knowing the effects of caffeine on your body and mind is essential.
Q&A With Experts
We asked a few experts the question “Can drinking coffee cause shortness of breath?”. Here’s what they said:
Dr. Felicia Stoler, doctor of nutrition: “Coffee contains caffeine, which is a stimulant that increases your breathing rate, so yes, it can cause shortness of breath. For example, if you have a pre-existing condition that impacts your breathing, it’s best to limit your consumption of coffee or choose decaf. Similarly, if you’re sensitive to caffeine, it’s best to avoid it altogether.”
Dr. Lisa Lewis, doctor of psychology: “Drinking excessive amounts of coffee can cause shortness of breath because of the stimulant effect of caffeine. The amount of caffeine that triggers these symptoms varies from individual to individual, so it’s important to be aware of your own sensitivity to caffeine.”
Dr. Ryan VanDyke, doctor of nutrition: “Yes, excessive consumption of caffeine can cause shortness of breath. Caffeine is a stimulant which increases your breathing rate, so if you are in an environment where the air is thinner or you are not used to exercising, caffeine can trigger symptoms like shortness of breath.”
In Summary
In conclusion, it can be said that drinking too much coffee can cause shortness of breath. The amount of caffeine that triggers these symptoms varies from individual to individual, so it’s best to be aware of your own caffeine sensitivity and keep an eye out for any potential signs of distress. Furthermore, drinking too much coffee can lead to sleep deprivation, dehydration, weight gain, and an increase in blood pressure, as well as an increase in cortisol levels, a reduction in oxygen levels, and an exacerbation of pre-existing conditions. It is important to stay cognizant of the effects of caffeine on your body and health, and to remain aware of your own individual caffeine sensitivity.
