It’s a well-known fact that when a wave of flu or other forms of viruses hit, men usually fall prey to these viruses more than their female counterparts.

Researchers have been trying to figure out this phenomenon, and there are several reasons that could explain why men are more susceptible to heavier viruses than women.

The Immune Response

The immune system is the body’s defense against infections and illnesses, and it’s the first line of defense against viruses.

It’s composed of various cells and organs which work together to identify, track, and eliminate dangerous invaders like viruses. The male and female immune systems are different, which makes them respond differently to different types of infections.

According to research, the female immune response is more robust and efficient in fighting off infections since estrogen tends to enhance the response of immune cells.

In contrast, testosterone, which is found more in men than women, works to dampen the immune response. This lack of immune response puts men at a higher risk of getting hit harder by a virus like the flu virus, which can lead to more severe symptoms and a longer recovery time.

Behavioral Factors

Some studies suggest that the decision-making process of men could also be a reason they’re more susceptible to heavier viruses. Research shows that, on average, men take more risks than women when it comes to their health.

They’re less likely to take preventive measures such as getting flu shots or avoiding sick colleagues. Men, generally, are less likely to go to the doctor when they’re sick or seek medical attention when infected, which can lead to the spread of the virus to others.

Another factor that contributes to this phenomenon is that men tend to have more contact with sick people than women. Men work in jobs that expose them to more colleagues, and they have more contact with family members than women.

This increased exposure means they’re more likely to get infected with heavier viruses, and they’re likely to suffer from worse symptoms than their female counterparts.

Hormonal Factors

Alongside the immune response, hormones can also drive the difference in susceptibility to heavier viruses between men and women.

For example, studies have demonstrated that women’s menstrual cycles affect their immune responses and inflammatory reactions, leading to a more robust immune response. Men do not have these fluctuations in their hormone levels, which can impact their immune response.

On the other hand, studies have demonstrated that androgens like testosterone tend to suppress the immune response, which makes men more vulnerable to some types of infections.

Lifestyle Factors

Lifestyle and environmental factors also play a role in how susceptible men are to heavier viruses. Poor diet, lack of sleep, and stress can weaken the immune system, making men more susceptible to viruses.

Additionally, men who smoke or drink heavily tend to have weakened immune systems, which can impact how they respond to the flu virus or other heavy viruses. Such lifestyle choices damage the immune cells and make them less effective in fighting infections, leading to more severe symptoms in men than women.

Risk Aversion

Another behavioral difference between men and women that could explain why men are more susceptible to heavier viruses is risk aversion.

Women tend to be more risk-averse than men, meaning that they’re more likely to take precautions and protective measures when exposed to a virus. When it comes to health, women are more likely to seek medical attention, follow recommended hygiene protocols, and stay away from sick people, thus reducing their chances of getting infected with a heavy virus.

Physical Differences

Lastly, physical differences between men and women play a role in determining how susceptible they are to heavy viruses. Men, on average, have larger organs like the lungs, which require more oxygen to function correctly.

When a virus settles in the lungs, it increases the workload of the organs which makes it more difficult for them to function. This can make men more susceptible to severe respiratory infections than women. Further, men have a weaker response to oxidative stress than women, which makes them more vulnerable to inflammation and a weakened immune system.

Conclusion

While men and women are equally at risk of getting infections, the severity of illness can differ depending on the individual and the type of virus. Men are more susceptible to heavier viruses, but the reasons for this are multifactorial.

The immune response, hormonal, environmental, and behavioral factors all play a role in determining susceptibility and severity of a viral infection in men. Understanding these differences can lead to better prevention measures and tailored treatments that are appropriate for each gender.