What is Caffeine-induced sleep disorder?
Caffeine-induced sleep disorder results from over-consumption of caffeine. If a person consumes caffeine immediately before bedtime or regularly throughout the day then the sleep delays, total sleep time reduces, normal stages of sleep later and the sleep quality decreases. High dose of caffeine in late evening sleep onset latency (length of time it takes to go from full wakefulness to sleep).
Excessive caffeine consumption leads to an intoxicated state. Caffeine intoxication presents as excitement, restlessness, agitation, rambling thoughts, and insomnia. Caffeine taken in the morning can cause these signs of intoxication the following night.
The amount of caffeine that is necessary to produce symptoms varies from person to person. Caffeine affects every individual differently. It is observed that while consuming caffeine regularly some people do not report any sleep problems.
Is Caffeine Harmful?
Through the stomach and small intestine, caffeine enters the bloodstream and produces a stimulating effect as soon as 15 minutes after consumption.
When caffeine enters the body it persists for several hours and takes about 6 hours to eliminate the one-half of consumed caffeine.
What is the action of Caffeine in the body?
Caffeine reaches the brain and increases the secretion of norepinephrine which is associated with the fight or flight stress response.
The increase in no epinephrine levels raises the activity of neurons in the brain and produces symptoms that resemble a panic attack.
Caffeine Consumption May Lead To?
• Excitement.
• Restlessness.
• Nervousness.
• Insomnia.
• Dieresis.
• Flushed face.
• Twitching in muscle.
• Gastrointestinal disturbance.
• Rambling thinking or speech.
• Tachycardia.
• Psychomotor agitation.
• Periods of exhaustion.
How To Investigate Caffeine-induced sleep disorder?
Diagnosis is based on:
• Individual’s recent history.
• Physical examination.
• Lab analysis of body fluids.
Is there Any Treatment For caffeine-induced sleep disorder?
Lower or stop the consumption of caffeine. Some may experience mild withdrawal symptoms e.g. irritability, headache, occasional nausea, but these symptoms resolve quickly.
How To Avoid Caffeine?
• Monitor the daily intake of caffeine.
• Substitute decaffeinated tea, and coffee, for caffeinated beverages.
What is the Differential diagnosis of caffeine-induced sleep disorder?
• Generalized anxiety disorder.
• Panic disorder.
• Amphetamine intoxication.
• Withdrawal effect of sleep medications, tranquillizers, sedatives or nicotine.
• Depression.
What is commonly indicated Homeopathic medicine for a caffeine-induced sleep disorder?
The commonly indicated medicines are:-
• Nux- vomica
• Kali phos
• Scutellaria
• Passiflora
• Coffea cruda
