Submitted by Taylor Hooton Foundation
The harmful consequences of anabolic androgenic steroid misuse can severely impact the human body. These effects vary from minor issues like acne and oily skin to serious health problems such as heart damage and possible fatalities. Users of anabolic steroids may experience various side effects that affect both their mind and body.
If you are concerned that your child, students, or friends may be using anabolic steroids, you can look for various short-term side effects that manifest as symptoms—such as noticeable changes in appearance, mood, and behavior. Educating yourself about the indicators of steroid abuse can help you recognize symptoms before it’s too late. Below are some examples of potential side effects of anabolic steroid use to watch for:
Physical Changes may be the most obvious signs, as novice users often cannot easily hide these short-term symptoms:
– Unusually rapid muscle growth
– Noticeably oily hair or skin (often accompanied by stretch marks on inner joints)
– Small red or purple acne, including breakouts on the shoulders and back
– Gynecomastia, or the abnormal enlargement of breast tissue in males
– Halitosis (bad breath)
– Thinning hair on the scalp or a receding hairline (male pattern baldness)
– Jaundice or yellowing of the skin
Personality & Emotional Changes often occur suddenly and without visible causes:
– Severe mood swings
– Heightened aggression or irritability
– Becoming secretive and/or dishonest
– Distancing from family members
– Depression, particularly when steroids are stopped
– Paranoia, characterized by intense feelings of mistrust or fear
Social Changes may be interpreted as typical teenage behavior or a quest for independence:
– An unexpected desire to work out at the gym
– More frequent locking or closing of the bedroom door
– Shifts in personal relationships with family and friends
– Phone conversations becoming increasingly private
– Engaging in theft or misplacing possessions
– Difficulty concentrating or focusing (in school, work, or at home)
For a comprehensive list of potential side effects and warning signs of steroid abuse, please visit http://taylorhooton.org/steroid-abuse/signs-of-steroids-abuse/.
To see the full list of potential side effects and warning signs of steroid abuse, please visit http://taylorhooton.org/steroid-abuse/signs-of-steroids-abuse/.
Q: How do I approach my loved one about this topic?
A: CLICK HERE
Q: I’ve discovered that my loved one is using, what should I do now?
A: CLICK HERE
About the Taylor Hooton Foundation:
The Taylor Hooton Foundation (THF) was established in 2004 in memory of Taylor E. Hooton, a 17-year-old high school student from Plano, TX. Taylor tragically ended his life on July 15, 2003, as a consequence of using anabolic steroids.
Currently, the THF leads in educating both youth and adult influencers about the dangers associated with anabolic steroids, human growth hormone (HGH), dietary supplements, and other substances that enhance appearance and performance.
