Side Effects of Bodybuilding Steroids
Bodybuilders often turn to the aid of anabolic steroids in order to obtain the physique they have always wanted. However, there are many side effects associated with the use of steroids, some of them serious.
Perhaps one of the most common side effects of steroid use is acne. When a bodybuilder takes steroids, it increases the activity of the sebaceous glands which can cause acne to develop. Acne is more likely to occur when using steroids at high dosages. Another side effect of steroid use is increased aggressiveness, also known as Roid Rage. While this occurs in less than 5 percent of bodybuilders who take steroids, it deserves serious consideration. Bodybuilders who are affected by Roid Rage develop psychiatric symptoms such as aggressiveness, increased violence, mania, and in severe cases, psychosis. Researchers have studied this topic extensively, and have found that bodybuilders who have a natural tendency toward aggressiveness and control, are most likely to suffer from Roid Rage, proving that overall temperament plays a significant role in increased aggressiveness with the use of steroids.
Teenage bodybuilders who use steroids may find that their growth is stunted. Stunted growth is most common when used by those who have not finished growing and occurs most often with certain types of steroids. Aromatizable steroids have been found to produce a growth inhibiting effect, which can lead to a shorter adult height. Steroids can also have a negative effect on cholesterol. Bodybuilders who use steroids are at an increased risk of developing high cholesterol levels. Some types of steroids cause high cholesterol, while others seemingly have little effect on blood lipids. Cholesterol levels may return to normal levels once the bodybuilder has ceased using steroids, however, there is no guarantee this will be the case.
Female bodybuilders who use steroids to obtain their optimal physique, often develop male tendencies and characteristics. This is known as virilization and women who suffer from it often develop a deeper voice, acne, male pattern baldness, excessive hair growth and clitoral enlargement. The severity of these symptoms often depends on the type of steroid used and the dosage taken.
While steroids may give bodybuilders a leg up on the competition, it remains to be seen whether or not it is worth the health risk to add them to the list of supplements taken daily. The side effects associated with the use of steroids largely depends on the individual and the dosage that is being taken.
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