How would you react if we were to tell you that caffeine is a drug similar to cocaine or crystal meth? At first, you would probably shake your head in confusion, wondering what random message board originally posted this idea. Nevertheless, caffeine is still a powerful stimulant and triggers the same neurochemical receptors as illegal drugs like coke or ice. Simply put, all of these drugs boost the release of epinephrine and norepinephrine and trigger the “fight-or-flight” response, a feeling of intense energy and alertness. While we are not saying that caffeine is nearly as deadly as its cousins, doctors have warned people about the how this common drug, possibly one of the most widespread on the market, can still inflict some damage on the body, if abused. Let’s take a closer look and find out.
The Pounding of Your Heart
By triggering the “fight-or-flight” reflex, caffeine subsequently increases your heart rate. However, keep in mind that you would have to consume about 360 milligrams of the drug (the equivalent of 3.5 cups of brewed, pure coffee) before your heart started pounding out of control. While most of you probably don’t even react to a single cup of coffee, people who suffer from anxiety will feel the effects of their problem twofold. Likewise, people with existing heart problems should stay away from this drug.
It’s through the Roof!
With a rapid rise of your heart rate, you can definitely expect your blood pressure to go a little crazy. Also known as the “pressor effect,” caffeine’s stimulation of blood pressure can happen to anyone, regardless of age or gender, and is particularly common among people suffering from hypertension.
Guys and Girls on the Same Boat
In an unusual twist, caffeine is also infamous for depleting bone density, not just for women but also for men. Likewise, children who consume soda at a young age will potentially suffer from a loss in bone density later in life; although this can be countered by drinking enough milk. While older women generally suffer from osteoporosis on a common basis, bone loss frequently occurs among young women who drink caffeine and take progesterone.
Seeking Treatment for Stimulant Abuse
Drug abuse and addiction is an unfortunate aspect of reality. Between the separate severity of stimulants and depressants, imagine the pain a victim experiences after combining the two. As easy as it may be to attempt to walk away from a substance that has taken its hold over you, though, you have to remember that anything is possible if you put your mind to it. Addiction is not your fault and never will be.
If you are suffering from a severe case of drug addiction or alcoholism, or have a friend or loved one who is coping with this illness, get in touch with Asana Recovery today. Our professional team of counselors and healthcare experts will help you endure the painful process detox and withdrawal and guide you through each step of the rehabilitation process to help you overcome your attachment to dangerous drugs and alcoholic drinks.
If you want to find out more about our residential treatment or supervised detoxification/withdrawal programs or enroll in one of these programs today, we are ready and waiting to speak with you at your leisure and your disclosure. Call Asana now at (949) 438-4504 to learn how you can overcome your mental illness and take an extra step toward becoming a healthier person.
