There are two classifications of steroids, anabolic steroids and corticosteroids. The latter are used medically to treat swelling and overactive immune systems. You should see your doctor before using them for any reason. Anabolic steroids are used to build muscle and are often used by athletes to increase their size and improve their performance. However, there are many things to consider when making the decision to try anabolic steroids. Educating yourself is vitally important to ensuring good health, whether you decide to use them or not. This research paper will outline what effects anabolic steroids have on the body.
One of the biggest risks with steroids is that many athletes misuse them, taking far more than is recommended. Your first step when making the decision to try them is to talk it over with your doctor to be sure you are making a choice that aligns with your health. If you decide to give steroids a chance, be sure to follow the directions exactly to prevent the negative consequences associated with them.
Men who take steroids can wind up with hormonal imbalances that can lead to a great many concerns. One is the formation of breast tissue, sometimes very prominently. Baldness is another problem that many men report with prolonged use of anabolic steroids. The bulk of the issues men face, however, have to do with their testicles. Some men notice a marked shrinkage in the area and excessive use of steroids can lead to impotence and infertility, something that can affect their own lives and that of their partner, should they want to have an intimate relationship or have children. An enlarged prostate is something else that is linked to steroid usage.
Women face their own set of potential complications with anabolic steroid use. Because many of them mimic testosterone, females may face an increase in body hair and a deepening of the voice. Occasional use probably won't lead to these issues, but prolonged steroid use can certainly cause these problems to occur. Women might also notice that they lose their hair and begin going bald. Finally, steroid use has been linked to disruptions in normal menstruation, causing periods to stop or become irregular. This can lead to reproductive health concerns.
Finally, there are a set of effects that both men and women might experience when they take steroids. Multiple studies and subsequent research papers have attempted to educate people about these concerns. They include severe acne, which is hard to treat and which may not go away until the steroids are discontinued.
Many of the unisex complications of steroids have to do with the heart. Steroid users might experience a spike in LDL cholesterol, which is a contributor to the development of heart disease. The steroids can also cause high blood pressure and general circulation and heart problems. These issues can be deadly so it pays to weigh the dangers with the benefits, especially if you have a risk of heart disease already.
Steroid use has also been associated with psychological issues. Users often become more prone to rage and aggressive type behaviors, especially with prolonged use. That's where the term "'roid rage" comes from. Some people who take steroids are also at risk of depression and substance abuse, as well as other mental health conditions.
Liver impairment, HIV and hepatitis are other concerns, primarily for people who inject their steroids. Teens who use steroids also face the risk of growth and developmental problems as they age. Joint and tendon issues are another thing to consider. Some of these can lead to scary and devastating consequences, so make sure you think very carefully about the use of steroids before you add them to your routine.
The primary thing to understand when it comes to anabolic steroids is that they are illegal. They are prohibited in sports and can lead to criminal charges if discovered. Other types of steroids aren't illegal, but still present the same risks. In some cases, steroid use has caused death so you want to be absolutely sure they are worth the danger for you. Of course, it's always a good idea to talk to your doctor before taking any type of steroid. Some of them may be dangerous if you have certain health conditions and could interfere with certain medications. You can also talk over the pros and cons so that you can determine if it's worth trying steroids. Bigger muscles might seem like a dream come true, but not with all of the side effects you could be facing.