Steroid use by athletes is a big deal because it is considered cheating and gives an unfair advantage to those who use them. In addition, many steroids are illegal without a prescription and can have serious health consequences.
Some of the common steroids used by athletes include:
1. Anabolic steroids - These are synthetic variations of testosterone, a male sex hormone. They are used to build muscle mass and improve athletic performance.
2. Human Growth Hormone (HGH) - This is a hormone produced by the pituitary gland that stimulates growth and cell reproduction. It is used to increase muscle mass, reduce body fat, and improve performance.
3. Erythropoietin (EPO) - This is a hormone that stimulates the production of red blood cells. It is used to increase endurance and improve oxygen delivery to the muscles.
Some of the side effects of these drugs include:
1. Liver damage - Steroids can cause damage to the liver, which can lead to liver failure.
2. Cardiovascular disease - Steroids can increase the risk of heart disease and stroke by causing an increase in cholesterol levels, blood pressure, and blood clotting.
3. Mood disorders - Steroids can cause mood swings, aggression, and depression.
4. Acne and other skin problems - Steroids can cause acne, oily skin, and other skin problems.
5. Infertility - Steroids can reduce sperm count and cause infertility in men, and disrupt menstrual cycles and cause infertility in women.
6. Addiction - Steroids can be addictive, leading to dependence and withdrawal symptoms when use is stopped.
Overall, the use of steroids by athletes can have serious health consequences and should be avoided. It is important for athletes to train and compete fairly, without the use of performance-enhancing drugs.