Types Of Steroids

Steroids are naturally occurring or synthetically produced hormones that help promotr muscle growth. We often hear stories of athletes using steroids in the news. Sport professionals consume steroids to get bulging and powerful bodies, to increase their chances of achieving victory in various sport categories, such as weightlifting, swimming and track events. In most cases, these people even admit using steroids to give them a winning edge over others. Eventually, these steroids are now being fascinated by younger athletes who long for becoming stronger and faster. Nonetheless, not all steroids can be used by such people. Only a particular category, that is, anabolic steroids can be used for such purposes. Likewise, there are other kinds of steroids that are utilized for various functions. Read on to know these types of steroids.  

 

 

They are natural or synthetic hormones that associated with adrenal cortex. They are generally prescribed by a doctor for treating inflammation in a specific part of body or a specific system. Such body parts are responsible for maintaining several systems, such as metabolism, many organ systems, and skeleton system. However, they can also be recommended for lupus or for asthma in order to reduce swelling and ease the occurring symptoms. Corticosteroids are most commonly used in the production of hydro-cortisone creams. They are increasingly being used to promote rapid growth of unborn infants by directly injecting them into the fetal lungs. This increases the chances of new-born babies surviving after being delivered. Further, there are less known complications of using corticosteroids for such purpose.  

 

Estrogens and progestogens are two different types of steroids that are naturally produced in the female reproductive system. Made from female hormones, they are responsible for the development of secondary sexual characteristics in women, such as wide hips and breasts. Synthetically derived versions of these hormones are used for producing birth-control pills and other hormonal contraceptive medications. They are even used for controlling and holding back the reproductive organs and menstrual cycles of women. However, their use in women above 45 years of age is a matter of concern, as they lead to risks of developing breast cancer.

 

The primary androgen that is used for medical purposes is testosterone. Generally made synthetically, testosterone is the dominant male hormone that is responsible for the development of male secondary sexual characteristics, such as deep voice, facial hair, and increased sexual drive. While it is essential for maintaining the male reproductive system, it also aids in stimulating growth of muscle tissues in patients who have suffered muscular damage during surgery. Nonetheless, testosterone is prescribed by doctors in cases of female breast cancer, weight gain, and red blood cell production.

 

Anabolic steroids are a part of androgens, since they promote growth of muscles. They have become a popular drug amongst athletes and professional bodybuilders, for stimulating muscle growth, in order to achieve bigger and more powerful muscles. However, they are not aware of the various risks and dangers that these steroids can cause to a human body that may not appear for years. Prolonged usage of these steroids can cause stunted growth patterns in teenagers, while adults can develop liver tumors, increased frustration, aggression and violence, acne, enlargement of heart muscles, hair loss, muscle aches, heart diseases and others. In severe cases, steroids can lead to infertility in both men and women, and even impotency in men.