Contents
What Are Anabolic Steroids?
Anabolic steroids are synthetic, or human-made, variations of the male sex hormone testosterone. The correct term for these compounds is anabolic-androgenic steroids. “Anabolic” refers to muscle-building, and “androgenic” refers to increased male sex characteristics. By synthesizing testosterone, anabolic steroids significantly increase muscle mass and strength in users.
What Are the Side Effects of Anabolic Steroid Use?
Anabolic steroid abuse can lead to serious, and sometimes irreversible, health problems. Some of the most common side effects associated with anabolic steroid use include:
Mood Swings:
Steroid use can cause individuals to feel happier, more aggressive, or even more irritable and hostile.
High Blood Pressure:
Abusing steroids can lead to hypertension and vascular damage.
Damage to the Liver and Kidneys:
Anabolic steroids can cause damage to the liver, and can also contribute to the development of kidney disease.
Cancer:
The use of anabolic steroids has been linked to an increased risk of developing certain types of cancer.
Heart Disease:
Anabolic steroid use has been linked to an increased risk of heart attack, stroke, and sudden cardiac death.
What Other Health Risks Are Associated With Anabolic Steroid Use?
In addition to the physical risks associated with anabolic steroid use, there are psychological risks as well. Using anabolic-androgenic steroids can lead to a range of mental health issues, including:
Depression:
Abusing steroids can lead to a range of psychological issues, such as depression and a distorted sense of body image.
Mania:
Abuse of anabolic steroids can also lead to a condition known as “roid rage,” which is an intense feeling of anger, aggression, and irritability.
Steroid Dependence:
When anabolic steroid use becomes excessive, users can become dependent on them and experience withdrawal symptoms when they stop using them.
Can Anabolic Steroid Use Be Stopped?
If an individual is experiencing any of the dangerous side effects of anabolic steroid use, it is important to seek help immediately. Treatment may include counseling, therapy, and/or medication. In addition, anabolic steroid use can be stopped by increasing awareness of the potential health risks of these drugs, and educating individuals on the potential consequences of using them.
Keywords Bolded: anabolic steroids, synthetic, male sex hormone testosterone, anabolic-androgenic steroids, muscle-building, increased male sex characteristics, mood swings, high blood pressure, damage to the liver, kidneys, cancer, heart disease, depression, mania, roid rage, steroid dependence.
