Question

1. Describe at least three actions that cortisol has on the body? Larry was always a healthy guy and rarely got sick. However, he recently lost his job due to the COVID-19 pandemic and was no longer able to support his family of five. Larry eventually became sick and was placed on bed rest. Explain how Larry could have gotten sick, despite his healthy track record. Be sure to include any pathways involved.

Answer 1

Let's first look at what action Cortisol has on the body. Cortisol is a hormone secreted by the adrenal gland present above the kidney. This hormone is a glucocorticoid, hence controls gluconeogenesis and blood sugar level. It mediates stress response and is also involved in memory formulation. It supresses the immune system. It regulates blood pressure also.

Larry has lost his job due to the Covid19 pandemic and is not able to support his family. This is a very stressful situation for him. So, his body might be secreting excess cortisol which is not very favourable. High amount of cortisol leads to muscle weakness, fatigue, increased blood pressure, mood swings leading to depression and anxiety. Inspite of having a healthy track record, the stressful situation lead to hormonal imbalance.