Steroids
Typically, the word steroid has a negative connotation associated with athletics. However, there are two types of steroids, including anabolic steroids and corticosteroids. Both types of steroids are associated with specific characteristics, primarily the control of inflammation levels, which decrease the body’s natural abilities to fight infections, and the use of steroids for increased muscle mass.
Corticosteroids
Corticosteroids are commonly prescribed by physicians to control inflammation levels within the body. These steroid hormones are involved in various physiological systems throughout the body; immune response, stress response, inflammation control, protein catabolism, carbohydrate metabolism, behavioral responses, and the control of electrolyte levels in the blood.
Anabolic Steroids
Anabolic steroids are synthetically produced hormones that are considered illegal in the United States unless prescribed by a physician. These steroids improve the body’s abilities for muscle production while simultaneously preventing the break down of muscle. Anabolic steroids are commonly utilized by athletes for improvements in performance levels. The use of anabolic steroids is currently linked to a variety of health problems, primarily by increasing the overall levels of testosterone in the body, especially if taken for extended periods of time in large doses.
Testosterone
Testosterone is a hormone derived from cholesterol that is produced naturally by the body. Anabolic steroids are synthetically produced to closely resemble the chemical structure of this hormone. Testosterone is responsible for the enhancement of particular characteristics, including voice deepening, growth of facial hair, and an overall increase in muscle mass.
Steroid Side Effects
There are many side effects associated with the use of steroids. Steroids should only be taken when prescribed by a physician. It is essential to use these steroids as directed.
- Liver tumors
- Heart muscle enlargement
- Muscle aches
- Increased risk for baldness and hair loss
- Stretch marks
- Acne
- Aggressive behavior
- Mood swings
- Stunted growth
- Female: Menstrual cycle problems
- Female: Fertility complications
- Female: Clitoris enlargement
- Male: Impotence
- Male: Reduced sperm production
- Male: Reduced testicle size
Steroids and Candida Yeast Infections
Steroids are strongly correlated with increase Candida yeast infection rates. Steroids are cause for increased glucose (sugar) levels of the blood. This increase in sugar also changes the natural environment of the vagina, increasing yeast proliferation levels. The natural environment of the vagina is important.
A variety of circumstances are necessary to maintain reproductive health, including vaginal pH, hormonal changes (caused by steroid use) and antibiotic use. In this manner, steroids actually encourage the growth of Candida yeast, making the development of a yeast infection more probable, or increasing the severity of a current yeast infection.
Candida Yeast Infections and Steroid Use
It is important to take care of your body. Steroids should only be used when prescribed by a physician and should be taken as prescribed. Steroids are associated with a variety of health problems, some of which are irreversible. The increased risk for the development of a yeast infection, or increasing the severity of a current yeast infection is only one of these side effects.
Learn more about Candida Albicans and Yeast Infections here.
Sources:
http://www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/candidiasis-yeast-infection
http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/vaginitis/DS00255
