Health Risks associated with the use of anabolic
steroids
Anabolic steroids are classed as illegal drugs and are banned by most
legitimate sports organizations. There can be no disputing the fact that
testosterone boosts the development of muscle mass and aids sporting
performance. Equally there is no doubt that its use can adversely affect the
health and wellbeing of users.
The androgenic properties of testosterone can affect the body in many ways but
often users see these as inconveniences that can be treated by using other
drugs. The most common side effects of testosterone supplementation include
the following:
1. Testicle shrinkage - the body responds to testosterone overload by reducing
its own production of the hormone. This causes the testicles to shrink due to
lack of use. When steroid usage stops, the testicles will grow again but they
could take at least six months to return to normal size.
2. Addiction - despite some users trying to convince themselves otherwise, the
use of steroids can result in physical and psychological addiction. Withdrawal
symptoms can be severe with muscle shrinkage, weakness and loss of libido.
3. Growth of breast tissue - this affects roughly one third of male steroid
users. It is caused by the conversion of some excess testosterone into the
female hormone estrogen. The breasts usually disappear when use of steroids
ceases but in some cases they are permanent and may require surgical removal.
4. Baldness and skin conditions - excess testosterone can be converted into
DHT, a hair unfriendly by-product that is responsible for male pattern
baldness and oily skin.
5. Pain, bruising, infection and scarring may result from careless or
incompetent injecting.
Some people have died as a result of steroid abuse and even those who adopt a
careful, pragmatic approach have to accept that these health risks are
unavoidable. My advice is, follow the natural route and use nutritional
supplements to boost the anabolic process.
Richard Mitchell is the creator of the
www.bodybuildingadvisor.com website
that provides guidance and information to athletes at all levels of
bodybuilding experience. Go to Bodybuilding Advice to learn more about the
issues covered in this article.
See Also:
Index of All Body Building & Fitness Articles
Index of All Sports Articles
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