About Steroid Abuse
The Problems Associated with Steroid Abuse
Anabolic steroids are synthetic substances that mimic the male hormone, testosterone. Usually, anabolic steroids are prescribed by physicians in order to treat the low production of testosterone, due to certain health issues. There are medical benefits to anabolic steroid use; however, there are many individuals who use this substance for the wrong reasons, which results in steroid abuse.
Steroids can as a shot into the muscle, a pill, or gel/cream rubbed onto the skin. Some common forms of anabolic steroids include fluoxymesterone and nandrolone, both used to help male hormonal production in individuals who lack natural the natural substance. Anabolic steroids are also used to prompt puberty in those who have experiences a drastic delay in the natural process. Here are a few anabolic steroid facts.
Why Does Steroid Abuse Occur?
Because anabolic steroids help boost muscle mass and make bones stronger, steroid abuse is prevalent in the bodybuilding, sports, and performance industries. People end up struggling with steroid abuse when the desire to enhance athletic performance drives them to try these substances.
Increasing muscle size and reducing body fat are other affects from anabolic steroids. Those sufferings from behavioral syndromes, such as body dysmorphia, fail to accept the way their bodies look and tend to obsess over physical appearance. Some individuals go as far as to abuse steroids in order to reach their physical goals, to either speed up the process or achieve a look that cannot be realistically achieved without the assistance of performance-enhancing steroids.
Many professional sports organizations specifically test for anabolic steroid use and prohibit such athletes from such substances.
What Are the Steroid Symptoms?
The most common and well-known of the steroid symptoms is the behavioral change associated with this drug. Many steroid abusers are known to be quick to aggression and irritability. Mood and behavioral changes occur, especially when large doses of this substance are being taken.
Physical steroid symptoms include: swelling, jaundice (yellowing of skin), trembling, aching joints, bad breath, severe acne, hair loss, oily skin, excessive hair growth, and more.
Liver, kidney, and cardiovascular disease are associated with steroid abuse as well. In men, the development of breasts is possible. Steroids affect cholesterol, blood pressure and can easily lead to heart attacks, if not monitored appropriately. Infertility is another result of long-term use.
Psychological and behavioral changes occur with steroid use. Anxiety, aggression, depression, mania, delusions, and suicidal ideation are possible as well. According to anabolic steroid facts, secondary hormone alterations may lead to the drastic behavior and mood changes. Impulsive and violent behavior can occur as a result of this as well.
Long-term steroid use can be extremely dangerous and affect many organ systems in the body. Those whom are prescribed anabolic steroids are encouraged to stay under close supervision of a physician. Using steroids without a prescription is illegal and highly discouraged
Steroid Withdrawal and Getting Help
The most common steroid withdrawal symptoms include fatigue, weakness, decreased appetite, weight loss, vomiting, and diarrhea. The most severe factors of steroid withdrawal are the psychological symptoms, like severe depression and suicidal thoughts.
Endocrinologists, primary care doctors, and internal medicine doctors may suggest tapering off the substance, as opposed to stopping abruptly. Weaning off steroids allows the body's adrenal glands to adjust accordingly and begin functioning again without the dependence on the substance. It's important to recognize the severity of withdrawal symptoms and get professional help as soon as possible.
The quicker an individual involved in steroid abuse gets help, the better the chance of full recovery. Getting professional help can also help individuals cope with other psychological issues that may have lead to steroid use in the first place.
Sources:
http://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-6108/fluoxymesterone-oral/details
http://www.medicinenet.com/steroid_withdrawal/article.htm