Can drinking coffee cause shortness of breath? (What Does Caffeine Do to Your Breathing + more information)

While coffee has many benefits, like improving cognitive functions and boosting productivity, can drinking coffee cause shortness of breath? Read on to find out.

Yes, drinking coffee causes shortness of breath, especially if you are experiencing heart disease.

I always expect to have shortness of breath when exercising or climbing a flight of stairs, but recently, I experienced shortness of breath 30 minutes after drinking my favorite morning brew. Although this wasn’t a common side effect, the sensitivity worried me as it interfered with my daily activities.

I decided to visit a doctor who discussed coffee and shortness of breath, and learned a lot. Continue reading to find out how coffee is connected to shortness of breath.

What Does Coffee Do To Your Breathing?

Since coffee contains caffeine, it creates alertness by increasing the nervous system activities, resulting in a fast heart rate and breathing rate, which means more blood and oxygen are delivered to the body.

Caffeine in coffee also acts as a bronchodilator, causing respiratory muscles to relax and increasing airflow to and from the lungs. Nevertheless, coffee can lead to nervousness, irritability, and insomnia, even in small amounts. It is only sensible to take coffee in moderation to avoid experiencing withdrawal symptoms when trying to cut back.

How Much Caffeine Will Cause Shortness of Breath?

The amount of caffeine that can cause shortness of breath depends on two factors

Firstly, you have conditions like heart disease worsened by too much caffeine.

Secondly, according to experts, if you consume caffeinated drinks in higher doses, low amounts of caffeinated drinks will have minimal side effects, around 400 mg.

Should I See A Doctor When I Have Shortness Of Breath After Drinking Coffee?

Yes, you should see a doctor if you have trouble breathing. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) refers to any disorder that causes shortness of breath. Bronchitis, asthma, and emphysema are among the conditions.

Furthermore, coffee has been shown to increase breathing rate, and if you are having difficulty breathing, your lungs and heart may be damaged, leading to more significant symptoms. A doctor will advise you on the necessary course of action, like changing your diet and limiting caffeine.

Conclusion

Shortness of breath after taking coffee is not something to take lightly, especially if you have a heart condition. You can lessen the amounts of coffee you take if you often experience shortness of breath. But if the breathing problems persist or come unexpectedly, it will be wise to visit a doctor.

FAQ Section

Does black coffee cause shortness of breath?

Black Coffee does not cause shortness of breath. On the contrary, it helps ease breathlessness by reducing the tightness in a person’s airway.

Will coffee cause shortness of breath if I have heart problems?

While some people experience shortness of breath due to a high intake of coffee, taking coffee in high doses while having heart problems heightens the situation.

Can drinking coffee for the first time cause shortness of breath?

Having short breaths after taking coffee for the first time depends on the individual. Children of less than ten years may experience allergy symptoms like shortness of breath, usually after a few hours of drinking coffee.