Are steroids harmful to you? Usage, side effects and risks
Jul 1 2020
Despite their potential benefits, AAS has several possible side effects, the severity of which varies depending on the degree of use of these substances.
Individual genetics also affect how you respond to AAS
The ratio of anabolic to androgenic varies between different types of AAS, which can also affect adverse reactions. Anabolic refers to the properties of muscle growth, while androgenic refers to the promotion of male sexual characteristics
The main side effects associated with the use of AAS are as follows:
- Increased risk of heart disease. AAS, used in combination with weight training, can increase the size of the left ventricle of the heart, as well as blood pressure. This may increase your risk of heart disease and death.
-May increase aggressive behavior. Steroid use has been associated with increased aggressiveness and impulsivity in adolescents and adult men
-May affect body image. AAS use and dependence are classified as a body image disorder in the Mental Disorders Diagnostic Guide.
-May cause liver damage. It has been shown that AAS, especially orally, increases the risk of impaired liver function.
-May cause gynecomastia. Defined as swollen male breast tissue caused by hormonal imbalance, gynecomastia can occur when you stop taking AAS.
-Decreased testosterone production. Steroid use is associated with hypogonadism, which is characterized by a decrease and decrease in testicular function.
-May cause infertility. Due to its ability to reduce sperm production, steroid use can cause infertility.
-May cause male pattern baldness. The androgenic effects of AAS can cause or worsen male pattern baldness. This effect may vary depending on the particular drug used.
There are also some side effects for women.Although the above side effects can occur in both men and women, women should be aware of additional ones, including:
-deepening voice
-facial changes and hair growth
-enlarged clitoris
-irregular menstrual cycles
-reduced breast size
-infertility
SUMMARY
Steroid use is associated with several side effects, such as an increased risk of heart disease and liver toxicity. Additional side effects are observed in women who use AAS.
Frequent blood work is important!!
The use of AAS can affect several laboratory parameters, which makes frequent blood work important to avoid serious complications. Steroid use may affect the following laboratory values
May increase hemoglobin and hematocrit. These blood markers play an important role in the delivery of oxygen throughout the body. Elevated levels can thicken blood and increase the risk of heart attack and stroke.
May lower HDL (good) and increase LDL (bad). HDL and LDL cholesterol should be within normal limits. Lower levels of HDL and higher levels of LDL may increase the risk of heart disease.
May increase liver markers. The use of AAS has been associated with elevated levels of aspartate transaminase (AST) and alanine transaminase (ALT), two markers of liver function. Elevated levels may indicate liver dysfunction.
You should consult your doctor before starting a regimen that changes your body's natural hormones.
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