Why Steroids are Dangerous to Athletes

What are Steroids?

Steroids are naturally occurring chemicals in the human body that increase growth such as the hormone, testosterone. There are oral steroids that come in a pill form and steroids that must be injected. Some people who participate in competitive sports or bodybuilding will be tempted to try steroids in order to gain a perceived edge over their competition in enjoying more benefits and gains from their workouts than they had before. However, steroids can be very harmful to health, and over the long run cause many problems for athletes who are striving for a healthy physique.

What is Steroid Abuse?

Steroid abuse is any use of steroids that is not prescribed by a doctor. Without careful monitoring by a doctor in the course of treatment for a diagnosed medical condition, steroids are not safe to use. Most people who abuse steroids obtain them illegally. In some competitive sports and in gyms, use of steroids is promoted, similar to peer pressure to try other illegal drugs. Men are not the only group that abuses steroids; sometimes female bodybuilders also use them in order to try to make bigger gains in muscle than they could have naturally. While steroids are banned in many competitive sports and competitors are tested and must abide by strict rules, in some bodybuilding competitions, steroid use is widely accepted. However, that does not make steroid abuse any less dangerous.

How is Steroid Abuse Harmful to a Person's Health?

The harmful effects of steroids can be both short-term and long-term, and mental as well as physical. Steroids have harmful effects on the heart, liver, and thyroid gland and can decrease the body's natural production of hormones. Bloating and acne can occur after continued use of steroids. In younger athletes, use of testosterone can stunt growth. Men may develop thinning hair and feminine qualities, such as enlarged breast tissue. Reproductive health may be affected, and common symptoms are shrinking testicles and lowered sperm count. Women, on the other hand, may experience a deeper sounding vocal pitch, loss of breast tissue, changes in menstrual cycle, and growth of facial hair. Digestive problems are linked to steroid abuse, particularly for oral steroids. Steroid injection carries many of the same risks as addiction to other types of IV drug use, such as hepatitis and HIV. Steroids are well-known to have the psychological effect of increasing aggression. The mood swings associated with steroid use can be very unpredictable, and cause a person to not act like themselves.

What Should I Do About a Steroid Addiction?

Steroids can be addictive just like many other substances, and users may experience cravings and withdrawal symptoms similar to many other types of drug use. Considering that steroid use is illegal and has very dangerous, possibly permanent, risks to a person's health, it is extremely important for a person who is dealing with a steroid addiction to seek help right away. Steroids can be psychologically addicting for users because they actually do promote growth and boost energy, which is what causes many users to become addicted. Overall, the risks are not worth these perceived benefits, and anyone who uses steroids illegally and not under the care of a doctor should consider getting help to prevent future health problems. A drug rehab Michigan treatment center can help those with problems with addiction to steroids and other substances. Meta: Why steroids are dangerous to athletes are the same reasons they are for everyone who abuses them. Short and long-term effects of steroids can be very harmful.

Five Drugs That Teens Commonly Turn To

In a recent survey, over 60 percent of teenagers reported that drugs were either kept, used, or sold, in their school. This alarming statistic indicates a more troubling reality: teenage drug use is on the rise. Teens are exposed to a wider variety of drugs, and in greater quantities, than ever before. Drug rehab centers for teenagers have sprung up across the country - and many now have waiting lists that are months long. In this article, you'll learn the need-to-know facts about the five most common drugs which are now fueling the teenage drug epidemic.

Marijuana

By the end of their middle school years, over 15 percent of teenagers have tried marijuana. Long viewed as the classic teenage "gateway" drug, marijuana is a drug with a long history that's familiar to the parents of today. However, there are some important differences between today's marijuana and the marijuana that fueled the psychedelic 60s. With advanced growing techniques, marijuana is far more potent than ever before. The drug's active component, THC (delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol), is present in quantities up to 10 times greater than marijuana produced just a decade ago. Although marijuana does not build physical addiction, psychological dependency is rampant among teenage users. Over time, the drug can also result in short-term memory loss and weakened immune system, putting teens at risk for other health problems.

Ecstasy

Ecstasy is the most widely used "club drug" among teens, famous for its ability to induce uninhibited behavior. Ecstasy is normally bought, sold, and consumed in pill form, making the drug especially difficult to spot by parents, teachers, and law enforcement. Because ecstasy affects both the circulatory system and brain function, seizures and heart arrhythmia are particular concerns among teen ecstasy users. Although rarely fatal, the drug can also lead to long-term kidney damage.

Prescription Drugs

According to recent data, over 2,000 teenagers abuse prescription drugs for the first time every month, making prescription drugs one of the fastest growing subsets of illicit drug use among adolescents. Teens misuse prescription drugs for a variety of reasons; however, the most commonly abused medications fall into two broad categories. Opiates like Oxycodone and Hydrocodone are used purely recreationally, and produce a traditional "high." Stimulants like Dextroamphetamine (Adderall) and Methylphenidate (Ritalin) are used to increase alertness and focus, enhancing academic performance. Regardless of intent, studies have shown that teenagers who abuse prescription drugs are far more likely to abuse other drugs as well.

Inhalants

Inhalants are widely used among teens largely due to their easy availability. Inhalant gasses, which give a quick but powerful high, can be found almost ubiquitously in common aerosol spray cans, permanent markers, industrial paints, and chemical solvents. Because of the seemingly commonplace occurrence of inhalant gasses in everyday household products, many teenagers don't realize the risks associated with inhalant use, making inhalants one of the most dangerous classes of drugs used by teens. Inhalant use can cause heart failure, hearing loss, nervous system damage, and other medically serious conditions - even after just a few uses.

Bath Salts

Bath salts are the newest frontier in teen drug use, a dangerous and powerful chemical which has emerged in recent years and exploded in popularity among teenage drug users. Bath Salts are a man-made chemical derivative of cathinone, and produce similar stimulant effects to traditional amphetamines. Billed as a less expensive alternative to cocaine, the drug is readily available, relatively cheap, and produces a profound and persistent high. Highly addictive, bath salts vary widely in their effects among teen users. Although chemically the drug releases a rush of dopamine, a powerful feel-good chemical, agitation and paranoia are also known as hallmarks of the drug. Meta: Five drugs that teens commonly turn to are marijuana, ecstasy, prescription drugs, inhalants, and bath salts. Stastitics show that teen drug abuse is rising.

3 Signs That Your Friend is Addicted to Heroin

Recognizing the Signs of Heroin Addiction

Recognizing the signs of heroin addiction isn't always easy. Since many addicts are secretive or reluctant to discuss their drug use, it's essential for friends, family members, and loved ones to learn to spot the signs and symptoms of addiction. And although the signs of heroin addiction can vary on an individual basis, this condition typically affects users in ways that affect mood, behavior, and appearance.

Psychological Changes

Heroin use can lead to several changes in mood and overall psychological well-being. A few of those changes include the following:

• Mood swings - In cases of heroin addiction, mood swings are often dependent on whether or not the addict is under the influence of the drug. For example, while under the influence of heroin, users often seem happy or relaxed; when craving the drug, addicts may display agitation, irritation, or combativeness.
• Depression - Heroin use can often lead to depression and other complications relating to mood. Depression is often characterized by overwhelming feelings of sadness, loss of interest, and problems within relationships.
• Anxiety - Anxiety is often present in heroin addicts, especially in those in need of a "fix." Anxiety is characterized by nervousness, shaking, irritability, insomnia, etc.

It's important to note that while depression, anxiety, and other mood disorders are often symptoms of addiction, they can also be contributing factors of substance abuse. As a contributing factor, psychological illness can often lead to self-medicating as a means to relieve emotional pain. Because of its relation to substance abuse, many drug rehabilitation facilities often offer various forms of treatment for depression and other types of mental illness.

Sign 2: Behavioral Changes

Behavioral changes are extremely common in individuals suffering from heroin addiction. These changes in behavior can be subtle or extreme and may include the following:

• Social isolation or ignoring old friends in favor of fellow addicts
• Neglecting responsibilities - This can include missing school or work, as well as failing to fulfill obligations at home or with family.
• Risky behaviors - This can include many activities and behaviors, a few of which may be driving under the influence, having promiscuous or unsafe sex, or sharing hypodermic syringes.
• Illegal behaviors - Heroin addiction often leads to criminal activity. In order to fund a growing and expensive habit, many users turn to theft, fraud, prostitution, or drug distribution as a way to make quick cash.

Sign 3: Changes in Appearance

At first, heroin addiction may not produce any obvious physical signs or symptoms. However, as dependence grows, heroin addiction can produce several outward effects. For example, the following effects are common in cases of heroin addiction:

• Unkempt appearance - It's not uncommon for heroin addicts to neglect their appearance. A lack of grooming, bathing, etc. is to be expected in cases of heroin addiction.
• Poor complexion - Drug abuse can have various effects on skin, health, and complexion. For example, heroin can cause the skin to become either dry and flaky or oily and waxy. Also, acne breakouts often occur as a result of heroin use.
• Signs of intravenous drug use - Many heroin addicts inject the drug intravenously. This is often evidenced by the appearance of needle, or "track," marks on the arms, hands, wrists, or feet. Also, some users inject heroin in spots that are easily hidden, such as in the groin, the thighs, or under the tongue.
• Weight fluctuations - Weight loss is common among heroin addicts; however, some users actually gain weight as a result of addiction. Any fluctuations in weight may signify a problem.
• Other physical effects - Constricted pupils, profuse sweating, bloodshot eyes, and problems with coordination are common side effects of heroin.

Getting Help

Watching a loved one face the perils of heroin addiction can be a frightening experience. Thankfully though, effective drug rehab treatment is available. When suggesting treatment to a loved one, it's important to remain calm and supportive, yet honest and firm. Research available treatment methods and, if necessary, call in a trained interventionist or addiction specialist.

How Opiates Affect The Heart And Other Vital Organs

Opiates like heroin, morphine, and oxycontin can be addictive and are a part of a growing drug abuse problem in the United States. When used for a long period of time, these drugs can cause significant damage to the immune system. Addicts have a higher risk of infectious disease, decreased brain function, and problems with body organs. Since they are extremely addictive, most patients have to be weaned off of opiates before they follow a drug rehabilitation program. Since 1995, there has been a 35 percent increase in hospital admissions for heroin abuse. Out of all drug-related deaths, heroin and morphine are listed in the top four. Although heroin use peaked in 1996, 1997, and 2000, it is still a major problem among American students.

Short-Term Effects

Even if someone has only taken a single dose of an opiate, they may experience a sense of euphoria and dry mouth. Other symptoms include feelings of heaviness in extremities and flushed skin. Often, users switch between drowsy and wakeful states of mind. As users become addicted, many switch to injecting opiates since the effect is faster than with snorting. If opiates like morphine are snorted, it can cause vascular inflammation and permanent damage. Pieces of the pill may become lodged within a smaller blood vein and block off the blood supply to a segment of the body.

Long-Term Symptoms

Individuals who chronically use opiates may develop cellulitis or collapsed veins. The heart gradually becomes more prone to infections within the lining and valves. Heroin users have to face pulmonary complications like depressed respiration or pneumonia. Over a longer time period, many individuals will develop problems with their kidneys, liver, and lungs. These effects are worsened if the drug is purchased off the street. Many street drugs are made out of toxic additives. These harmful chemicals are difficult for a body that is weakened by drug use to flush from its system. Within the mind, opiates immediately begin to rewire the pleasure centers within the brain. They change the reward system of the mind so that it needs more drugs in order to fill the same level of well-being. When someone tries to quit, the sudden withdrawal may be fatal if they are in poor health. Due to this, most opiate abusers must seek medical treatment if they want to recover from their drug abuse problem. Opiates also change how the nerve cells work with the spinal cord, brain, and limbic system. As nerve cells grow accustomed to opiates, they send out a signal to receptors within the brain. Once the drug wears off, the brain will gradually start to function more normally.

If opiates are used for a long time, it can permanently change how the mind works. Opiate addiction can lead to abscesses in the skin, bacterial infections, or scarred veins. If needles are shared, it can increase the chances of someone contracting HIV or Hepatitis B. Kidney disease, liver disease, arthritis, and brain damage may also be a result of addiction. Some patients may experience cell death in their vital organs or clogged blood vessels. Opiates include drugs like morphine, codeine, heroin, and oxycontin. The basic element of opiates is derived from the poppy plant. If someone wants to kick their opiate addiction, they should seek medical help. Alternative treatments like methadone can help patients to get rid of their drug addiction and avoid serious withdrawal problems. However, one must be careful with methadone treatment as it can be addictive also. New drugs like buprenorphine have also been shown to reduce withdrawal symptoms while naltrexone can block someone’s ability to enjoy opiates. The key to recover is seeking treatment getting medical help the drug rehab professionals before long-term side effects develop.

5 myths about drug detoxification

Drug detoxification is the first step of a rehab program. It is the process of “getting clean” or removing the drugs from a person’s system. Detox is necessary when it comes to beating addiction. There are many misunderstandings about detox and how it is done. Here are five myths about detox, along with the truth:

Detox Myths

Myth 1: Once you have gone through detox, your rehab is complete.
Truth: The rehab process is much bigger than detox alone. A full detoxification is only the first step of rehab. Drug rehab includes the detox process, but then goes on to help the person find out why and how they became addicted in the first place. It then helps them work out what they can do to change their behavior, how they can avoid or change their reactions to drug-abuse triggers, and more. Rehab centers also usually have a follow up program for after the person has graduated to ensure they are continuing to do well in life.

Myth 2: Detox is pure hell.
Truth: Removing toxins from your body can be an uncomfortable process – there is no doubt about that. However, there are things that can be done to make the process more comfortable. Additionally, while the withdrawal symptoms for some drugs can include life-threatening seizures, if you are in a properly supervised program with medical staff to help you through the worst of your symptoms, withdrawal can be done safely. Professionally supervised medical detoxification is one option to make detox as comfortable and safe as possible. Additionally, proper nutrition, sleep, massage, chiropractic, and other therapies can help make the process a healing one.

Myth 3: You can detox as an out-patient procedure.
Truth: Any addict has the option to attempt to get themselves off drugs at any point in time. However, it is always recommended that detox is done under the close supervision of trained staff. When a person is detoxing, withdrawal symptoms are a continuous concern and must be monitored. This means that detox is best done as an in-patient procedure.

Myth 4: Your only option in detox is going “cold turkey.”
Truth: Going cold turkey is only one option in detox. You can also participate in a medical detox, which consists of easing the addict off their drug of choice slowly in a supervised manner, as well as using prescribed medication. This option can be much more comfortable than going cold turkey. Just know that going cold turkey isn’t your only option. For a number of drugs, such as heroin, alcohol, and benzodiazepines (anti-anxiety drugs), cold turkey is extremely dangerous. Consulting with an addiction specialist is a good first step.

Myth 5: Detox plus an entire rehab program can be completed in 28-30 days.
Truth: The 30-day system doesn’t always guarantee results. If you have been addicted for years, it isn’t realistic that all your problems will be solved in 30 days. The detox process, along with effective rehab, can take much longer than this. In fact, most graduates of rehab continue to work with 12 Step or other support groups after they have completed their rehab program. Comprehensive aftercare is essential to the rehab process.

The truth is that you can beat addiction with complete detox and effective rehab. It takes time, energy, the help of professionals, proper nutrition, and more, but the end result is a drug-free life.

Sources

www.DrugAbuse.gov
www.BestDrugRehabilitation.com

Environments that increase the likelihood of drug abuse

Drug Abuse and Environment

What type of environment is prone to produce a drug addict? Are the poor or the rich more susceptible? What is it in a person’s vicinity that can trigger drug use? The fact of the matter is that drugs pervade all levels of society – from the homeless to the Ivy League. A man on the street, once a successful family man, is now a skid-row alcoholic. A university student uses cocaine to stay up all night studying for exams, and gradually sinks deeper and deeper into psychological addiction. If you believe in an imminent or eventual Apocalypse, look no further than drug abuse as one of the chief horsemen leading the charge.

How many crimes do you think have some connection to drug or alcohol abuse – either directly or indirectly? Specifically: assaults, homicides and suicides entwined with drugs and alcohol, or connected to drug dealing and trafficking. Or traffic accidents that are the direct result of a DUI? A large number of health risks and diseases are also inextricably linked to drug and alcohol abuse. And don’t think it’s just the illicit drugs; prescription drug abuse now claims responsibility for drug-related deaths surpassing traffic fatalities, with a large percentage of those traffic accidents being drug and alcohol-related. Probably you get the point.

People react differently to their environment. But it is true that certain environments or circumstances are known to motivate drug abuse. In the case of a child, how they are brought up in their own home will play a large role in how they react to their surroundings. Will everyone respond the same? No, but understanding some of the forces at work enables us to better deal with the problem:

• Familial Environment 

If one’s parents or siblings are drug users, the likelihood of the person turning to drugs will increase. Children look up to their parents as role models. There are also studies which suggest some genetic factors may be at work in drug addiction. 

• Personal Problems; Stress; Trauma 

Associated with drug abuse and addiction is the mind-set or attitude that one must escape or forget about personal problems. One can also experience stress, profound loss, abuse, or trauma to such an extent that drugs appear the only answer. 

• Atmosphere of Hopelessness 

Some people live in parts of America – or parts of the world – where there seems little to no hope for future advancement. Factors such as poverty, low life expectancy, economic collapse, and urban decay can all contribute to a sort of “contagion of apathy.” One example close to home is small towns in America that have been hit hard by wide distribution and use of methamphetamine. 

• Peer Pressure 

Teenagers in particular are subject to intense peer pressure. A teen who has a circle of friends who drink and use drugs will feel quite pressured to participate or feel like an outsider and outcast. They want to fit in, so drinking – in particular binge-drinking – and drug use seems like the way to do it.

• Appeal of the “Drug Culture” 

The mantra of “sex, drugs, and rock & roll” has an appealing ring to many young people. The drug culture, or counter-culture, looks like a good alternative to the stiff dead-end lives of their parents. After all, their parents did it when they were kids, right? 

• Availability 

Some people get into drugs just because they are around – at home, on the street, at their friends’ houses, or in school. Drug pushers like to do business at clubs and raves where they’ll find potential customers literally waiting in line.

Answers to Drug Abuse

Education is a significant part of the solution to drug abuse. Youth who learn the truth about drugs, the physical damage, the abysmal lows that inevitably accompany the euphoric highs, etc., will be less likely to experiment with them. Similarly, they should be provided an environment where they can grow and learn and develop as individuals. Not an easy task – but an important one. There are individuals and groups working to provide alternatives to the dead-end of drug and alcohol abuse – groups that get kids off the streets and into the gym or on the playing field, into creating art, or building a future. These programs illustrate the positive side of the picture.

Drug rehabilitation is the process by which someone who has been addicted can get off drugs and pursue their goals without a chemical crutch. Through education, rehabilitation, and of course the family, the tide of drug abuse can be turned. The more people that get involved, the better our chances. If you are concerned about it, look up organizations in your area and get involved. If you or someone you know is addicted, contact an addition specialist at Best Drug Rehabilitation.

Sources

National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA)

Prescription Drug Abuse

Addiction and Heredity

Drug Education

Safeguard and Improve Your Environment