Analyze the following scenario and explain a likely physiological mechanism that connects the individual's psychological state to their physical health outcome.

Google

Research suggests that stress affects immunology mainly through autonomic nerves innervating lymphoid tissue, hormone-mediated alteration of immune cells, or adoption of coping behaviors.

Stress and Immunology

- Stress negatively affects the immune system (more stress → more susceptibility to colds)
- The lack of antibodies in a person’s blood made them more susceptible to colds
   - However, this data was not statistically significant
- Healthy subjects were given one of five types of respiratory viruses in the form of nasal drops
   - These included: RV Type 2, RV Type 9, RV Type 14, respiratory syncytial virus, or coronavirus type 229E
      - Respiratory viruses target the lungs, which leads to airway blockage (i.e. alveoli are unable to conduct gas exchange), wheezing, and other symptoms that affect breathing
   - The control group was given saline nasal drops
   - Those with coronavirus type 229E showed higher stress, thus more infections

Impact of Stress on The Susceptibility to The Common Cold

- Negative life events, perceived stress, negative affect were reliably associated with increased susceptibility to colds
- When only those persons without an infectious roommate were studied, both perceived stress and negative affect predicted clinical illness,  but the association between life events and illness was marginally reliable.
    - bigger sample for more reliable picture
- Negative life events were associated with greater rates of clinical illness (mediated creased symptoms among infected people), while perceived stress and negative affect were associated to increased infection


Negative Life Events, Perceived Stress, Negative Affect, and Susceptibility to the Common Cold

The immune system functions as the body's surveillance and defense network. It is composed of a complex array of structures, cells, and mechanisms designed to protect the body from invading microorganisms. A properly functioning immune system maintains health and prevents disease by identifying and eliminating harmful agents such as bacteria, viruses, and other foreign substances that could damage tissues and organs.

Learn Before

Related