the man flu

Next time your husband is sprawled across the sofa exaggerating his cold or flu symptoms, try to sympathize. According to a recent study published in the BMJ medical journal, his immune system may be naturally weaker. This immunity gap may be modulated by hormonal di erences, in which the masculine hormone testosterone suppresses the immune system, while the feminine hormone estradiol protects it. In addition, an American study based on hospital records revealed that men die more often from the flu compared with women of the same age. At any rate, the best advice for anyone a ected by a cold or the flu, regardless of gender, is to rest at home, drink plenty of fluids and consult with your primary care physician.