Caffeine & Back Pain
Back pain may not be a common symptom that comes to your mind when you think about consuming caffeine. If you notice that you develop back after you stop consuming the drug or your back hurts after drinking caffeine, call your doctor for evaluation. Back pain is a common reaction to pain that forms in your chest or abdomen and may be related to heartburn or an ulcer. Caffeine withdrawal may also lead to back pain and general stiffness. Do not attempt to treat your symptoms with any medication without first talking with your doctor.
Caffeine Withdrawal
Caffeine is a drug that directly affects your central nervous system, causing excitability, more energy and mental alertness, according Drugs.com. Caffeine is an odorless, tasteless chemical naturally found in the plants that produce coffee, chocolate and tea and is added to certain beverages, such as sodas and energy drinks. If you consume caffeine on a daily basis and suddenly stop, you may develop fatigue, headaches, sleepiness and difficulty focusing, according to CNN Heath. Researches at John Hopkins Medicine state that general stiffness and pain can occur anywhere in your body. Back pain from caffeine withdrawal is most likely connected to headaches or shoulder stiffness.
- Caffeine is a drug that directly affects your central nervous system, causing excitability, more energy and mental alertness, according Drugs.com.
- If you consume caffeine on a daily basis and suddenly stop, you may develop fatigue, headaches, sleepiness and difficulty focusing, according to CNN Heath.
Heartburn
Does Caffeine Cause Stomach Pain?
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If you’re prone to heartburn, consuming caffeinated beverages may increase the chances of symptoms forming. Heartburn can cause back pain because of the burning pain and discomfort in your upper-chest. Pain in the chest is commonly reflected to the upper-back, between the shoulder blades. Heartburn occurs when stomach acids enter the esophagus after eating or drinking. The harsh acids cause irritation and damage to the lining of the esophagus, causing a burning sensation. If you develop heartburn more than twice a week, you may have a more serious condition called gastroesophageal reflux disease, according to MayoClinic.com.
- If you’re prone to heartburn, consuming caffeinated beverages may increase the chances of symptoms forming.
- Heartburn can cause back pain because of the burning pain and discomfort in your upper-chest.
Ulcer
Pain from an ulcer can cause back pain that is accompanied with pain in your upper-abdomen. An ulcer is an open sore in your digestive system that can become irritated and painful after consuming caffeine. Ulcers are the result of a bacterial infection, but may also be caused by alcoholism, smoking cigarettes and the overuse of certain medications, according to FamilyDoctor.org. Ulcer pain may come and go and get worse at night, waking you up in the middle of the night. Ulcer pain in the back, like heartburn, originates in the one area of your body but is felt in your back.
- Pain from an ulcer can cause back pain that is accompanied with pain in your upper-abdomen.
- An ulcer is an open sore in your digestive system that can become irritated and painful after consuming caffeine.
Consideration
Allergic Reactions to Caffeine
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If you develop back pain from caffeine along with shortness of breath, tingling in your arm, sweating and chest pain, call your doctor immediately. You may be experiencing a heart attack that will require emergency medical attention.
Related Articles
References
- John Hopkins Medical: Caffeine Withdrawal Recognized as a Disorder
- FamilyDoctor.org: Ulcers
- Drugs.com: Caffeine
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Writer Bio
Diane Marks started her writing career in 2010 and has been in health care administration for more than 30 years. She holds a registered nurse license from Citizens General Hospital School of Nursing, a Bachelor of Arts in health care education from California University of Pennsylvania and a Master of Science in health administration from the University of Pittsburgh.