Dangers of Steroid Abuse by Kids and Teens

The news is filled with stories about athletes and other sportsmen ‘juicing’, using steroids regularly to enhance their performance. Everyone from professional Olympic gymnasts, cyclists, baseball players to even swimmers have been held accountable – and in some cases have admitted to- the use of anabolic steroids to give them an edge over their competitors. rnThe use of these steroids has passed down to younger athletes also, who have to deal with fierce pressure to be stronger, faster and fitter, and to push themselves to make it to college and be the top pick in drafts for professional leagues. Recent research has shown that about 5% of teenage boys and 2.5% teenage girls resort to the use of anabolic steroids. These drugs promise quick and bold results, but there is little proof to show they reap any such benefits. Students are obtaining and consuming anabolic steroids without any knowledge of the dangers associated with their use. They can be a reason for major harm in developing kids – with most of the ill effects showing up only years later. It is important to remember that steroids are illegal, too. rnIt's critical to understand the facts, side effects and dangers associated with this drug. Being aware of the severe pressure several kids are under can help make sure your child is not at risk. What are steroids? Drugs commonly called as “steroids” are classified as anabolic and corticosteroids. Corticosteroids, such as cortisone, are medications that are usually prescribed by doctors to help control inflammation in the body. They are often used to treat conditions like asthma and lupus. They are not the same as anabolic steroids that are used by athletes and bodybuilders and receive a lot of negativity from the media for their use. rnAnabolic steroids, on the other hand, are synthetic hormones that can help enhance the body’s ability to grow muscle and prevent muscle breakdown. Most young athletes consume steroids in the hopes that they will help improve their ability to run faster, lift heavier weights, provide extra stamina and endurance. The anabolic steroid called “andro” is usually taken to build muscle. But if taken excessively can increase levels of testosterone, which can increase the risk of health problems. How do anabolic steroids work? The chemical structure of anabolic steroids resembles the body’s naturally produced sex hormone testosterone. This hormone is responsible for the enhancement of male characteristics such as facial hair growth, cracking of voice, muscle growth and plays an important role during puberty in male development. When a kid takes anabolic steroids, it increases the level of testosterone in the body. This will stimulate the muscle tissue in the body to grow faster and stronger. Too much of testosterone in the body could have adverse effects over time. Dangers associated with anabolic steroids There are two major risks connected to anabolic steroids: they are illegal, and they can damage a person’s health in the long run, especially if taken in excessive doses. Teenagers and kids might be impressed by the quick and immediate results, but serious health problems may appear only years later. rnThe use of steroids for an extended period of time can negatively affect the reproductive system. Some of the major problems teens will face if they take steroids for an extended period of time are: *Stunted growth (by causing bones to mature too fast) *Abnormal enlargement of the heart muscle *Violent and aggressive behavior, mood swings *Liver tumors *Heart diseases caused by blood lipid abnormalities *Acne *Increased breast growth *Stretch marks *Male baldness and increased tendency for hair loss *Muscle aches *Reduced testicle size and impotence is males *Irregular menstrual cycles in females rnSome of the additional harmful effects faced by teenage girls are: *Enlargement of clitoris *Cracking of voice *Male-type facial and body hair growth Speaking to kids about steroids Young athletes may be pressurized to experiment with steroids. There are many hardworking teens who train properly, eat well, exercise hard and are able to maintain optimal performance levels. But the desire to have a physically toned and muscled up body can be incredibly fierce. rnYou can help your kid handle these pressures by: *Educating them about the adverse effects of steroids and the coaches’ and team members’ attitude toward it *Stressing the importance of healthy competition *Providing them with the encouragement to prepare mentally and physically for various competitions *Not putting them down and making them feel inadequate when they fail rnSome of the warning signs of steroid abuse you can notice in your child are: *Increased breakout of acne *Sudden bulking of the body and increase in muscle size *Severe mood swings *Stretch marks rnIt is important to educate your child that steroids might make them feel stronger and more athletic, but the long-term consequences are too dangerous. They must instead focus on maintaining a proper diet, training, resting and good overall mental and physical health. A lot of great athletes have excelled in the field without having to use steroids. All your kid requires is the right kind of support, positive encouragement, and love. We would love to hear your views on this topic. Please feel free to leave us a comment below.