Coronavirus patients with higher levels of the stress hormone cortisol in their blood are more likely to die from the deadly virus, according to scientists. A study by Imperial College London researchers revealed that patients with high levels of the hormone deteriorated more quickly and were at a greater risk of dying. A study by Imperial College London researchers revealed that patients with high levels of the hormone deteriorated more quickly and were at a greater risk of dying. Our cortisol levels, when healthy and resting, are 100-200 nm/L and nearly zero when we sleep - low levels of cortisol in ill patients can be life threatening. 'In addition, we can also take cortisol levels into account when we are working out how best to treat our patients.'

Source: Daily Mail June 19, 2020 16:44 UTC