What are some side effects of steroids?

To try to achieve the muscular look, some people use anabolic steroids, a synthetic version of the male hormone, testosterone. Anabolic steroids are drugs with many dangerous side effects.

Psychological Side Effects of Steroids

edginess, impatience, paranoid feelings
severe mood swings including depression
obsession with body image, having to work out, and food
angry and violent outbursts known as "roid rage"

General Physical Side Effects of Steroids

liver damage
kidney damage
increased blood pressure and cholesterol (risk for heart disease)
depressed immune system (risk for infections)
headache and stomach ache
nosebleeds
severe facial and body acne
decreased joint flexibility

Additional Physical Side Effects of Steroids

In men:

breast enlargement
shrunken testicles
lowered sperm count
increased sex drive
decreased sexual performance - difficulty getting and maintaining erections

In women:

growth of facial and body hair
male pattern balding
development of Adam's apple
deepening of voice
enlargement of clitoris
abnormal or absent menstrual period
infertility

In teens:

stunted growth due to early closure of the growth centres in long bones
severe acne

Is It Worth the Risk? Get All the Facts...

The side effects of steroids can be dangerous and permanent.
Your genetic makeup has a major role to play in your body shape and size. That's a fact even steroids can't change.
Anabolic steroids for the purpose of bodybuilding can only be obtained on the black market. Much of this supply is impure or unclean. Vials and needles are often shared.
Injection of steroids means increased risk of AIDS, and other diseases such as hepatitis.

More Information on Body Image and Steroid Use

Working out to develop a strong, and healthy body is a
good thing... just remember there are more lasting ways to feel good about yourself and earn respect than muscles alone.

Source: www.peelregion.ca