Steroids are certainly in the news a lot lately. As you might know, steroids were first created to help treat guys who weren't producing enough testosterone. People figured that if steroids could help a man with low testosterone levels, steroids could also create "super athletes."

What we know now is that taking steroids can create serious health problems and that they can be addictive, just like any other drug.

Sometimes they're used to treat certain problems like severe asthma or allergies, but that has to be done under a doctor's supervision. When steroids are taken without medical supervision, or if more than what's been prescribed are taken, steroids can cause the testicles to shrivel up, and to stop producing testosterone. This can lead to something called "gynecomastia," which is when guys begin growing breasts. Guys who take steroids can also have trouble getting and keeping erections.

Girls who take steroids may see their breast size go down. They may have trouble with their periods and see additional hair grow on their bodies--including their faces. Some girls and women who abuse steroids may also start experiencing male pattern baldness on their heads.

Certain steroids, known as anabolic steroids, can also cause bones to stop growing too soon, which prevents the body from fully developing. That, in the long run, makes for a weaker body, not a stronger one. Taking these steroids can also cause serious acne, liver tumors, mood swings and other health problems.

Above all, steroids can change a person's personality completely. This can include "Roid rage," when people become aggressive or violent about the slightest thing, having hallucinations (seeing or hearing something that isn't really there), anxiety or panic attacks, and depression and suicidal feelings.

Keep in mind that it's illegal to use steroids unless a doctor prescribes them for a medical problem.