Steroids

Steroids

Steroids

Who abuses steroids? Mainly body builders and athletes abuse steroids to alter their muscle mass and enhance performance however steroids can be abused by anyone. Unfortunately steroids have many negative side effects which may lead to severe psychological and physical changes.

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What Is Steroid Abuse?

steroids
Steroids= Artificial Body Enhancements

It was not long ago when steroid use and abuse was within the domain of athletes, body builders and physical fitness fanatics. But the increased availability of drugs (including steroids) across the country has affected everyone, even school-age children. Media images promote the concept of the big powerful athlete, bulging with well-formed muscles. Insecurity develops within and steroid abuse offers a new way to achieve that look that seems unattainable. But is it worth the risk?

Steroids, like any drug, have a profound impact on the brain’s neurotransmitters, which can set up mood and behavioral changes. Scientific research shows that anabolic steroid addiction and steroid abuse can cause aggression and other psychiatric side effects. If you are experiencing any symptoms that cause you to question reality, please call Recovery Connection now at 866-812-8231. You need help and we are here to offer you the support you need. We are available 24/7, so call us at your convenience.

Warning Signs of Steroid Abuse

Men who become obsessed with body building and who ingest steroids to help them increase their muscle mass may have a distorted perception of their bodies, called muscle dysmorphia or megarexia. It is usually associated with low self-esteem and is related to feeling small or weak. Generally, these men adhere to a strict diet and constantly analyze their body images in the mirror. Frequent workouts with weights for extended hours in the gym are common. These men often abandon close relationships, careers and other forms relaxation in order to exercise more.

Signs of steroid abuse and addiction:

  • Inflated self-esteem
  • Extreme mood swings
  • Depression
  • Paranoid jealousy
  • Extreme irritability
  • Aggressive/violent behavior
  • Delusions
  • Impaired judgment

Anabolic steroids are taken orally or injected and when abused are taken in cycles that last weeks or months (referred to as "cycling"). Cycling involves taking multiple doses of steroids over a specific period of time, stopping for a period and then starting again. In addition, steroid users may combine several different types of steroids to maximize the effectiveness and minimize negative effects. This process is known as stacking. Prolonged use of steroids can lead to steroid dependence and a host of major medical problems.

Medical Problems from Steroid Abuse

The length of time steroids stay in the body can vary greatly depending upon the type of steroid, the amount taken and the regularity of use.

Major medical side effects:

  • Liver tumors
  • Cancer
  • Jaundice (yellowish pigmentation of skin, tissues, and body fluids)
  • Fluid retention
  • High blood pressure
  • Increases in LDL (bad) cholesterol
  • Decreases in HDL (good) cholesterol
  • Kidney tumors
  • Severe acne
  • Trembling
  • Increased risk of HIV/AIDS
  • Overproduction of red blood cells

Steroids are abused by both men and women, but the side effects differ by gender. For women many of the side effects are irreversible and can lead to fertility problems and masculinization.

Gender specific side effects:

Male Side Effects  

  • Shrinking of the testicles
  • Reduced sperm count
  • Infertility
  • Baldness
  • Development of breasts
  • Increased risk for prostate cancer
Female Side Effects  

  • Growth of facial hair
  • Male-pattern baldness
  • Changes in or cessation of the menstrual cycle
  • Deepened voice
  • Diminished breast size

(Source: http://www.deadiversion.usdoj.gov/pubs/brochures/steroids)

Steroid Addiction Treatment – Get Help Now!

Steroid withdrawal must be medically managed by an endocrinologist for the safest possible drug detox. The major health problems created by steroid abuse are related to the alterations in the levels of hormones in the body. Steroid withdrawal must be closely monitored and a specific steroid taper needs to be prescribed. Severe depression is the most common psychological side effect of stopping steroid use. Recovery Connection recommends going to a medical detox center because they are best equipped to prescribe medications for depression.

Many times, the withdrawal period will far exceed the actual tapering period. Steroid detox, which removes the steroids from the body, does not help with the severe self-esteem and psychological issues that may be the underlying issue for those struggling with steroid addiction.

Withdrawal symptoms can mimic other health problems and can include:

  • Weakness
  • Fatigue
  • Decreased appetite
  • Vomiting
  • Abdominal pain

Some steroid abusers turn to other drugs to alleviate the negative effects of anabolic steroid addiction. Therapeutic interventions are recommended to handle steroid addiction, addiction to other substances and the accompanying psychological issues. Recovery Connection staff can help you find the best drug rehab center to make your transition off steroids as comfortable as possible. Call us today at 866-812-8231 and get on the track to a healthier lifestyle.

Looking For Treatment?

If you or a loved one is addicted to steroids, Recovery Connection can help you find a detox and addiction treatment program to suit your needs. Call 866-812-8231. Our helpline is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Calls are confidential and our services are free of charge.

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