Background Information on Concussion
Concussions are a type of mild traumatic brain injury, caused by a blow or jolt to the head that can result in the brain moving rapidly within the skull. This can cause brain cells to be stretched, damaged and send false messages to muscles, resulting in various cognitive and physical issues. Short-term impacts can include dizziness, nausea, headaches, sensitivity to light and memory problems. According to the Singapore Ministry of Health (2018), if an individual presents a loss of consciousness after a blow to the head and experiences headaches or vomiting, it warrants an urgent visit to a doctor.
Determining Risk of Drinking After Concussion
When considering the possibility of drinking coffee after sustaining a concussion, it is important to evaluate the level of risk involved. Although there is still a lot we do not know about the aftermath of concussion, the medical community has determined the potential risks associated with drinking coffee after this type of injury.
Overstimulation of the brain is the key consideration for people who have suffered a mild traumatic brain injury, as caffeine has been found to be a stimulant. Consequently, drinking coffee could result in further headaches, depression, altered sleep patterns, cognitive problems and possibly more serious complications. The alternative is consuming decaffeinated coffee which, according to the British Coffee Association (2019), still contains between 0-0.1% of caffeine, but the effects are far less likely to be detrimental than with caffeinated coffee.
Risk Assessment and Monitoring
An individual needs to assess the level of risk associated with drinking coffee after suffering a concussion. Factors to take into consideration include the severity of the concussion and the amount of caffeine consumed in coffee. If a person believes there is a risk, it would be wise to monitor the situation and drink decaffeinated coffee in the long-term. Furthermore, speaking to medical professionals is advisable before drinking coffee in order to properly assess the risks associated and make an informed decision.
From the Experts Perspective
Experts state that it may be advisable to wait approximately seven days after a concussion before drinking coffee or any other caffeinated beverages. Furthermore, the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) recommends that if an individual experiences any abnormal symptoms after drinking coffee, as a result of a concussion, they should stop drinking it altogether.
Advantages of Caffeine After Concussion
Caffeine is not only used to provide energy and alertness. It is also used to reduce some symptoms of concussion, such as headaches. According to the American Academy of Neurology, drinking caffeinated coffee can reduce the frequency and intensity of headaches when compared to consuming placebo drugs (2019). Therefore, while drinking caffeinated coffee may carry risks, it can also provide positive outcomes.
Physical Activity and Coffee After Concussion
Engaging in physical activity is beneficial for treating concussion but there is still some uncertainty regarding how caffeine from coffee affects this treatment plan. Along with potentially increasing headaches and other cognitive issues, caffeine may also delay recovery. It is important to consider the effects of caffeine before drinking coffee and engaging in physical activity after a concussion in order to avoid any further complications.
Hydration and Drinking Coffee After Concussion
Dehydration is another issue to bear in mind when consuming coffee after a concussion. Caffeinated beverages, such as coffee, can have a diuretic effect on the body, resulting in more frequent urination that can cause dehydration. In light of this, it is recommended to replace fluids lost through urination by drinking plenty of water.
Coffee Alternatives After Concussion
Outside of coffee there are other caffeinated alternatives. This can include energy drinks, tea, soft drinks or chocolate. Although these beverages may seem less hazardous in comparison to coffee, it is important to be mindful of their caffeine content as they can still cause adverse effects. Caffeine in large doses can be dangerous and individuals should keep this in mind before drinking any caffeinated beverages.
Overall Advice on Drinking Coffee After Concussion
When considering drinking coffee after suffering a concussion, it is recommended to be cautious. Assessing the risks, monitoring the situation and discussing the matter with a medical professional are all advised. Furthermore, considering other caffeinated beverages and making sure to stay hydrated are both important considerations.
