Anabolic Steroids are prevalent nowadays. Many athletes use them to increase performance. Even though it may have some good benefits, there are side effects. These types of steroids promote skeletal muscle growth and enhance male sexual qualities.
They are commonly used by body builders, weightlifters and others associated with strength training. With its ability to improve muscular performance and decrease fats in the body, athletes have increased potential. That is why it is illegal for athletes who are joining certain official competitions to use them.
They can be injected or taken orally. Dosages depend on the condition and age of the person. Here are some of their side effects. Some side effects are serious and some are more common. It is said that orally taken steroids have more adverse effects. This type affects the liver in particular. Anabolic steroids are said to reduce the liver’s excretory purposes.
The liver can be damaged from a bleeding cystic condition which is patently dangerous. Moreover, the use of steroids has been connected to liver cancer, but this is still being studied. In the cardiovascular system, anabolic steroids can cause changes in the heart processes and strokes are possible especially to those who are taking oral steroids. In the male reproductive system, it is said that these can cause erectile dysfunction and could also lead to impotence even though sexual energy is enhanced. Atrophy or shrinking of the testicles can also occur and is associated with very high dosages of anabolic steroids. Since the skin is the largest organ of the human body, it cannot be considered safe from these adverse side effects, enlarged skin pores, especially in women because their skin is more sensitive than men is common.
This process is also known as “virilization” and it is an irreversible side-effect. Acne is another problem. Intake of steroids can worsen the condition of existing acne conditions. Stretch marks are also expected to appear, especially in women. It is not true that steroids cause baldness, but it can speed up the process of its occurrence. Internal changes are also expected. With high dosages of anabolic steroids, both men and women may experience a change in behavior. Usually, it is associated with an increase in aggression and rage behavior. Some athletes consider this advantageous because they need the rage to optimize their performance. However, it is also not uncommon to feel severe depression.
This usually results in huge weight gains and self confidence falters. In addition, feminization occurs in males. With the huge amounts of testosterone, some may be converted to estrogen which is the female sex hormone.
This is the side effect that most body builders do not want to experience. In females, masculinization occurs. This results in a more masculine behavior and nature. This may enhance growth of body hairs. However, symptoms vary from person to person. Some men develop breasts because of the high intake of these anabolic steroids. These effects can only be removed by plastic surgery; This condition is called Gynecomastia.
The risk of cardiovascular diseases is also increased. Decreased growth, kidney problems, severe headaches, liver problems, and immune system deficiencies are also side effects of taking anabolic steroids.
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