A whole host of side effects have been reported whilst administering anabolic steroids, and a serious side that should not be overlooked or neglected is with frequent headaches. Athletes have reported an increase in the frequency of headaches whilst using anabolic/androgenic steroids.
Headaches can be caused by a number of things, stress and dehydration being the most common. When headaches are experienced is steroid cycles, it is most common during heavier bulking cycles, when an individual is utilising strongly estrogenic compounds.
These headaches can simply be put down to an increase in stress on the scalp and neck muscles due to the intense weight training, which can be remedied by a short break from training and some good general rest.
The problem being, that some headaches will be caused by a much more serious problem. Blood pressure has a tendency to increase during heavier cycles and these headaches can be a result of high blood pressure, hypertension. Simply taking an asprin for immediate relief is not a sensible course of action to take.
If the headaches are a side effect of steroids, then this is generally a good time to end the cycle as much more serious and life threatening episodes can occur. Medications such as Catapres can be used to lower blood pressure but generally, high blood pressure is an indication to discontinue steroid use.
It has been advised to have regular check ups with a physician to monitor blood pressure levels whilst using steroids. Alternatively, legal steroids like Pro Anabolic have no effects on blood pressure and so can be taken without the fear of damage to health.