article on gyno
Gynecomastia
Gynecomastia is a very unattractive, and potentially dangerous side effect of anabolic steroids. It occurs because one of the breakdown products of testosterone and its steroid derivative is the feminizing hormone estrogen. In the peripheral tissues, excess testosterone can be converted to estrogen in some males. Estrogen receptors are found in a male’s breast region, and therefore, the nipples may then swell, and later
appear similar to female breasts. The common names for gynecomastia are “Gyno” or “Bitch Tits”. In most individuals, the swelling will stop after steroid use has been discontinued. In a few individuals, treatment with anti estrogen drugs is required, and in an even smaller percentage, surgery may be required to correct the treatment. Other ways to develop gynecomastia occur naturally, and are not affiliated with steroid use or abuse. Examples of such naturally occurring Gyno cases can be seen in male adults aged 65 years and older. At this age, the body naturally produces less testosterone. Lower levels of testosterone are also present due to certain types of plasma proteins, and the conversion of testosterone to estrogen by the presence of aromatase, which is produced due to increasing levels of body fat. Endocrine researchers have also estimated that 65 percent of all teenage males will experience the condition in varying degrees.
Although there is no way to predict if a steroid user will develop the condition, males who experienced the condition naturally as teenagers are at a greater risk. This is one of several reasons why teenagers should not use anabolic steroids. Older individuals should stop using the drugs at the first sign of swelling, and immediately see their physician.