Q.29. . - Biology

Question

Researchers have recently demonstrated that stressed people are more susceptible to contracting the common cold than people who are not stressed. What kind of stress must the infected patients be experiencing, and why does it make them more susceptible to the virus? 

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

• The researchers emphasize that stress does not cause all colds. 
• Instead, those who are under extreme stress are more likely to contract the flu when exposed to a virus than those who are not.

Step 1: Introduction

Stress can impair immune function and, as a result, cause the common cold by altering the concentration of leucocyte cytokines, which are molecules that mediate the host's response to infection and are responsible for the cellular release of inflammatory compounds. 

Step 2: Explanation

• Stress increases catecholamine and suppressor T cell secretions, causing the immune system to overreact.
• This increases the likelihood of a viral infection.
• Chronic stress, such as that caused by excessive anxious behavior, can lead to depression and illness in the body.
• Suffering from flu-like symptoms or feeling sick is a common side effect of chronic stress, such as that caused by stress-response hyperstimulation.