Anabolic Steroids And Its Ill Effects On Men?s Health

Posted by FrankHodson on September 30th, 2014

Anabolic steroids are artificial substances that have similar action to that of male sexual hormone, testosterone. Healthcare professionals prescribe these types of steroids to treat problems in people who suffer from delayed puberty and other health issues that are associated with low testosterone levels. Also, anabolic steroids are used in making bones strong and muscles bigger. However, excessive use of these steroids can lead to health problems in men.

What Are Anabolic Steroids?

These steroids are synthetic medicines which are similar to male hormone, which help kick puberty and in boys who are suffering from genetic disorders. These synthetic substances are available in the form of pill (oral), injectable (intramuscular), and cream/gel (rubbed on skin). In United States, common synthetic steroids such as nandrolone and fluoxymesterone need medical prescription to purchase them. Many people use illegal steroids to enhance their body musculature.

Few people take these steroid hormones in the form of dietary supplements that are made by the human body. Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) is a common steroid hormone that is taken in the form of supplement, which is used to make muscle bigger and strong. The exact working mechanism of these steroids is not known. But if taken in larger quantities, adverse effects are bound to happen due to chemical interactions in the body.

Some teenagers and adults use these synthetic substances illegally to lower their body fat and increase muscle and bone strength. They take these drugs to improve their overall performance in sports and other activities. People mostly use these steroid hormones more than the prescribed dose, and are at risk of getting medical problems.

Ill Effects of Anabolic Steroids on Men’s Health –

These synthetic substances can cause adverse effects on the health if taken for a longer period of time. And some of the effects are serious which can be permanent. Following are the ill effects of steroids –

• Shrinkage of testicles – Due to excessive use of steroids, one may suffer from atrophy of testes
• Low sperm count – Prolonged use of these synthetic substances decreases the production of sperm and ultimately reduces the sperm motility
• Infertility – Due to low testosterone level, sperm count is greatly reduced which causes infertility, in which a man loses his ability to become a father
• Erectile Dysfunction – A man loses his ability to achieve and sustain an erection while having sexual activity
• Priapism – Prolonged painful erections
• Gynecomastia – Too much of anabolic steroids can produce male breast

Physical Health Issues –

• High blood pressure
• Heart attack
• Stroke
• High blood cholesterol levels
• Male pattern baldness
• Liver diseases
• Skin Infections
• Acne
• Oily skin and scalp

Mental Health Issues –

• Addiction
• Irritability
• Aggression
• Delusions
• Mood Swings
• Rage
• Violence
• Mania

People who take anabolic steroids on regular basis can suffer from withdrawal symptoms after stopping them. The symptoms include anxiety, depression, extreme tiredness, no desire to eat or work, lethargy, and mental agony.

When To Approach Your Physician?

If you experience any of the above symptoms, you are advised to visit your family doctor for appropriate management. You medical advisor may ask you few questions about your activities and dietary supplements or any other substances you have consumed, which is followed by physical and general examination of the body. Also, he/she may ask you to get a blood and urine tests.

After undergoing all these procedures, your doctor may assess you and will treat you accordingly. Usually, healthcare professionals will prescribe you medications that will reduce your withdrawal symptoms and physical or mental health issues. Along with medications, people are advised to undergo proper counseling, rehabilitation, family care and social support.