Anabolic steroids are synthetic derivatives of the male sex hormone testosterone. Although they are often used to treat certain medical conditions, their abuse is common among athletes and bodybuilders who want to improve performance and physique. In fact, it is impossible to achieve a professional degree without the use of such drugs, that is, without undergoing an anabolic steroid cycle. Therefore, although it is common knowledge, no one openly states that they are on a steroid cycle. In this article, we will examine the cardiovascular effects of anabolic steroid use, discussing the underlying mechanisms and potential long-term effects.
Anabolic steroids can cause hypertension because they increase blood pressure and intensify the work of the sympathetic nervous system.
Long-term use of anabolic steroids can also lead to overgrowth of the heart muscle. The growth of this muscle can lead to heart failure. Therefore, I do not recommend long-term use of anabolic steroids.
Risk of Blood Clots and Thrombosis
Steroid use can increase blood clotting and increase the risk of thrombosis (blood clot formation). Blood clots can block blood flow to the heart or brain, causing a heart attack or stroke.
Although the side effects do not affect you much, especially at a young age, anabolic steroid use can cause serious side effects in the long term. It is not advisable to use them without careful consideration because of the possibility of interfering with the healthy functioning of a very serious organ such as the heart.
1. Cardiomyopathy and damage to the heart muscle
Long-term steroid use can cause direct damage to the heart muscle. Steroids can cause the heart muscle to thicken (ventricular hypertrophy) and lose its elasticity. This can lead to cardiomyopathy, i.e. weakening of the heart muscle and its inability to function. Cardiomyopathy can progress to heart failure.
2- Blood Pressure Diseases
Anabolic use can increase blood pressure. Hypertension makes the heart work harder and over time can lead to thickening (hypertrophy) and hardening of the heart muscle. This creates a risk for heart failure and other cardiovascular complications.
3. Heart Rhythm Disorders
Anabolic use can trigger arrhythmias by causing electrical imbalances in the heart. This can disrupt the normal heart rhythm, causing dangerous palpitations or even sudden cardiac arrest.
5. Risk of Blood Clots and Thrombosis
Anabolic use can increase blood clotting and increase the risk of thrombosis (blood clot formation). Blood clots can block blood flow to the heart or brain, causing a heart attack or stroke.
It will be much better for you to use anabolic steroids knowing that such diseases are extremely vital. Anabolic steroids have serious effects on all your organs. Muscle growth, improved physical appearance, increased libido and mental strength are all attractive to you while using oral steroids, but you should also think about the effects after you stop.