Problems With Drugs in Sports
Athletes are role models, and young children look up to them and want to be like them -- excluding athletes who break the law and take illegal drugs. Some athletes take drugs to enhance physical performance; others them for the euphoria caused by the substances. Harmful side effects can occur from drug use when playing sports, because a lot of physical activity is required on and off the court, field and track.
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Drug Testing
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Professional athletes are subjected to drug testing. Some sports test athletes randomly, which prohibits them from using products that can clear the drugs out of their system. This might be considered a violation of privacy, but when athletes sign contracts, testing is a requirement to be permitted to play. If drugs are found in your system, aside from legal reprimands, you may be suspended and permanently released from the league.
Steriods
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Steroids help to control inflammation of the body. Steroids are illegal without a prescription, and athletes caught taking them can be kicked out of their sport's league, and possibly sent to prison. Steroids delay fatigue and create a feeling of euphoria. The drugs enhance an athlete's ability to play, but the side effects can be harmful. Side effects include delusions, high blood pressure, increased aggression and heart attacks. Doctors prescribe these drugs for those who need them, but they are not prescribed to build muscle.
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Cocaine
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Cocaine, a powerful nervous system stimulant, is illegal to have -- both in the country and in sports. Cocaine abuse can impair the regulation of body temperature during sports activity. Users can experience abnormal or blurred vision, which can harm other players on the court or field, or in the ring. Chronic headaches, strokes and sudden death can also occur.
Marijuana
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Marijuana has been proven to hinder the performance of athletes and impair their better judgment. Use of this drug not only puts the athlete in harm's way, but also the other athletes on the court and field. Consuming marijuana can result in injury when athletes participate in weight training and lifting.
Reputation
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Drugs are banned universally in sports, in large part because of the amount of activity involved. The team owners in sports have invested time and money in their teams, and the negative effects of drugs can cause them to lose players and face ridicule from spectators and fans. Besides the harmful effects drugs have on players, the sports leagues have reputations to uphold to the public and the fans. Drugs are illegal, and athletes are not an exception. Athletes are role models for young children and should teach them to say no to drugs.
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