Steroids
Anabolic steroids are in the sports new every day. Some claim that steroids, taken correctly, are not only safe but also essential for fast recuperation and lean muscle growth, and that only those who do not understand the methodology of taking steroids have problems. However, many well known sports personalities, and even want-to-bes, have died or suffered debilitating injuries due to the effects of steroids. Some athletes even use veterinarian drugs, used to fatten pigs and horses, to make themselves bigger and leaner, though most opt for the harder to detect varieties that clear the system very quickly.
Martial artists use anabolic steroids. The core of all martial arts is the art of self-defense, self-protection. It is hypocritical to practice the martial arts while doing harm to yourself. Maybe these people should practice the art of defense against themselves.
Commonly Reported Positive Effects
- Increased leanness/muscle definition
- Increased muscle mass/weight
- Increased strength
- Increased effectiveness of training
- Improved recovery rate
- Euphoria
- Increased aggressiveness
- Increased sex drive
Commonly Reported Negative Effects
Both Sexes
- Increased risk of mood disturbances including mania and depression
- Increased risk of psychosis
- Increased risk of aggressive acts which may injure self or others
- Increased risk of cardiovascular disease
- Increased risk of liver disease and cancer
- Increased risk of kidney disease and cancer
- Risk of HIV and Hepatitis B & C from contaminated needles
- Acne
- Bad breath
- Decreased sex drive
- Baldness
- Water retention
- Muscle cramps
- Aching joints
- Increased risk of muscle tears
- Increased risk of tendon injuries
- Increased risk of nose bleeds
- Insomnia
- Decrease in immune system effectiveness
- Infertility
Men
- Increased risk of prostate enlargement and cancer
- Decreased testicular size
- Gynecomastia (growth of breasts)
Women
- Increased risk of cervical and endometrial cancer
- Increased risk of osteoporosis
- Irreversible enlargement of the clitoris
- Irreversible hoarsening and deepening of the voice
- Irreversible increase in facial and body hair
- Decreased breast size
- Amenorrhea
- Uterine atrophy
Children
- Short Stature
- Premature ephiphyseal closure
- Some more commonly used steroids include
- Dianabol: increases strength and energy and promotes a feeling of well being. It causes water retention, aggression and in some cases bitch tits.
- Testosterone injections: increases energy, strength, size, and recovery but with the usual side effects, especially aggression and irritability.
- Decca (Deca-durabolin and Durabolin): promotes increased strength and size, helps to strengthen joints, and aids recovery.
Symptoms of use
- Unusually fast muscle growth
- Flare-ups of acne, especially over the back
- Mood swings
- Mood shift to depression
- Violent, combative behavior
- Thin skin
- Enlarged jaw which over a long period causes gaps between the teeth
Because steroids are addictive, withdrawal symptoms may occur when a person is not using steroids. These symptoms may include:
- Depression
- Loss of energy and appetite
- Insomnia
- Manic-like symptoms