Introduction
Steroids are a type of drug that are commonly used by athletes and bodybuilders to enhance their performance and build muscle. However, there has been a lot of debate about the effects of steroids on white blood cell count. In this article, we will explore the relationship between steroids and white blood cell count in detail.
What are steroids?
Steroids are a type of synthetic hormone that are similar to the male hormone testosterone. They are used to treat a variety of medical conditions, including muscle wasting diseases, osteoporosis, and delayed puberty. However, steroids are also used illegally by athletes and bodybuilders to enhance their performance and build muscle.
What is white blood cell count?
White blood cells are an essential part of the immune system. They are responsible for fighting off infections and diseases. White blood cell count is the number of white blood cells in a person’s blood. A normal white blood cell count ranges from 4,500 to 11,000 cells per microliter of blood.
Do steroids increase white blood cell count?
There is some evidence to suggest that steroids can increase white blood cell count. This is because steroids have an anti-inflammatory effect on the body. Inflammation is a natural response to injury or infection, and it causes an increase in white blood cell count. Steroids can reduce inflammation, which in turn can lead to a reduction in white blood cell count.
What are the risks of increased white blood cell count?
While white blood cells are essential for fighting off infections and diseases, having too many white blood cells can also be a sign of underlying health problems. Conditions such as leukemia, anemia, and infections can all cause an increase in white blood cell count. Therefore, it is important to monitor white blood cell count and seek medical attention if it is outside the normal range.
Are there any benefits to increased white blood cell count?
While an increase in white blood cell count may be a sign of underlying health problems, there are also some potential benefits. For example, a study published in the Journal of Investigative Medicine found that an increase in white blood cell count was associated with improved survival rates in patients with heart failure.
What are the risks of using steroids?
Steroids can have a number of negative side effects, including acne, hair loss, mood swings, and an increased risk of heart disease and liver damage. Long-term use of steroids can also lead to infertility and reduced sperm count in men.
Conclusion
In conclusion, there is some evidence to suggest that steroids can increase white blood cell count. While an increase in white blood cell count may have some potential benefits, it is important to monitor white blood cell count and seek medical attention if it is outside the normal range. Additionally, the risks of using steroids far outweigh any potential benefits, and they should only be used under the supervision of a medical professional.