You might reach for an energy drink to wake up in the morning or power through a long shift. These beverages are a popular way to get a quick boost. However, physicians are increasingly recognizing a link between excessive energy drink consumption and serious health risks, including stroke.
Recent medical research illustrated why moderation is important. A case study, published in the BMJ (formally known as the British Medical Journal), involved a healthy man in his 50s who drank about eight energy drinks daily. His blood pressure spiked to dangerously high levels, triggering a stroke. After he stopped drinking the energy drinks, his blood pressure returned to normal.
Doctors have treated patients who suffered strokes after consuming large amounts of energy drinks. Another case reported in the American Journal of Emergency Medicine in 2013 described a 37-year-old man who experienced both a stroke and a seizure after mixing energy drinks with alcohol.
While more research needs to be done on the correlations of energy drinks and stroke, these cases demonstrate that consuming high amounts of caffeine and sugar can place significant stress on the body, including the brain.
This guide explains in more detail how these beverages affect your body, the early signs of stroke to watch for and why prompt action can make a life-saving difference.
What Is a Stroke?
A stroke happens when blood flow to part of the brain stops. When this happens, brain cells cannot get the oxygen they need. They can begin to die in just minutes.
There are two main types of stroke:
- Ischemic stroke: This is the most common type. It happens when a blood clot blocks a blood vessel in the brain. Think of it like a clogged pipe that stops water from flowing.
- Hemorrhagic stroke: This happens when a blood vessel in the brain bursts or leaks. This causes bleeding in or around the brain.
Both types are medical emergencies. They require treatment right away.
What Is a Mini-Stroke? (TIA)
You may have heard the term “mini-stroke.” Doctors call this a Transient Ischemic Attack, or TIA.
TIA is a brief episode (sometimes lasting just a few minutes) during which a region of the brain does not receive enough blood flow to function normally. Because the blood supply is restored quickly, the affected brain tissue does not die as it does in a stroke. However, these attacks are often early warning signs of an impending major stroke.
If you have symptoms of a mini-stroke (described below), you need to go to the hospital immediately, even if you feel better.
How Energy Drinks May Increase Your Risk
Energy drinks are not just soda or coffee. They often contain very high levels of caffeine mixed with other stimulants like guarana and taurine. When you drink them, several things happen to your body.
- Spikes in blood pressure: Caffeine makes your heart beat faster and harder. This raises your blood pressure. High blood pressure is the number one cause of stroke because it damages blood vessels over time.
- Heart stress: The mix of ingredients in energy drinks can make your blood vessels narrow (get smaller). This makes it harder for blood to flow and puts extra stress on your heart.
- Dehydration: Caffeine makes you need to urinate more. If you aren’t drinking enough water, your blood can become thicker. Thicker blood is more likely to clot, which can lead to a stroke.
Who Is at Higher Risk of Stroke?
Some people are more likely to have a stroke than others. If you have certain risk factors, energy drinks might be more dangerous for you.
You should be extra careful if you have:
- High blood pressure
- Diabetes
- High cholesterol
- A history of smoking
- Heart rhythm problems (like atrial fibrillation)
- A family history of stroke
If any of these apply to you, talk to your doctor about whether caffeine is safe for you.
Early Warning Signs: BE FAST
If a stroke happens, learn to spot it quickly. Use the letters BE FAST to remember the signs:
- B: Balance or coordination issues
- E: Eyesight becomes blurred or reduced
- F: Face drooping
- A: Arm (and leg) weakness
- S: Speech difficulty
- T: Time to call 9-1-1
Why Every Minute Matters
Stroke treatment is a race against the clock. The best medicines for blocking clots must be given within 3 to 4.5 hours of the first symptom.
Do not drive yourself to the hospital. Call 9-1-1. Paramedics can start testing and treating you in the ambulance. This saves valuable time.
The bottom line: Energy drinks might give you a buzz, but they also force your heart and blood vessels to work much harder. For some people, this extra stress can trigger a stroke or a mini-stroke. The best way to protect yourself is to know your body. If you feel strange symptoms like numbness, confusion or trouble speaking, do not wait.
If you have experienced symptoms of a TIA or “mini-stroke,” prompt evaluation is critical to prevent a major stroke. Stony Brook Medicine offers specialized, same-day care at Suffolk County’s first and only Rapid Access TIA Clinic. Our unique program provides peace of mind, saving you a potentially long wait in the Emergency Department by offering a full day of coordinated, same-day diagnostic services and expert consultation in a single location. This clinic is by referral only. If you have had symptoms of a TIA, ask your physician or provider for a referral.
