Dave Hartrey, a 24-year-old bodybuilder from Waterford, Ireland, recently came forward to expose the severe negative effects of steroid use. The online fitness instructor had to deal with painful and severe breakouts, which resulted in keloid scars on his back, chest, and arms.
“I’ve always been passionate about fitness and started working out when I was 15,” Dave explained. “When I was 20, I started training with a bodybuilder and decided to get into bodybuilding myself.”
The allure of rapid progress and accusations of steroid use in the gym led Dave to try steroids, despite the potential risks. “With steroids, you’re rolling the dice from the start because taking testosterone can hinder your body’s natural production, not to mention the other dangers,” he warned.
Obtaining the drugs from a gym acquaintance proved to be a risky decision, as Dave later faced severe consequences. He experienced two painful outbreaks of acne and boils, even after lowering the dosage. Dave admitted that while some advised him to stop, he persisted due to his dedication to a bodybuilding show he had worked hard for.
“I sought guidance from top coaches in the industry, hoping to find a cycle that wouldn’t trigger breakouts,” Dave explained. However, his efforts were in vain, and a second, more severe breakout occurred in February 2021, affecting multiple areas of his body.
Despite being invited to train with top bodybuilders, the pain and pressure from his condition became unbearable. Dave made the difficult decision to quit the show and discontinue steroid use. Unfortunately, he faced yet another excruciating breakout, confining him to his home for a distressing nine months.
Currently, Dave is on a waiting list for a consultation to explore options for removing the keloid scars through laser treatment or injections. Despite the harrowing experience, he finds solace in his TikTok platform, where he uses his story to raise awareness and help others.
Anabolic steroids can have severe negative effects on men, such as reduced sperm count, infertility, shrinking testicles, erectile dysfunction, hair loss, breast development, higher risk of prostate cancer, severe acne, and stomach pain.
Dave’s journey serves as a cautionary tale, highlighting the importance of understanding the risks associated with steroid use and seeking professional medical advice before making such decisions.