Possible explanation for victims that collapse/ die from damaged lung tissue after infection. (Coronavirus)

by forthebantz42

TLDR: the virus causes an immune response so severe (if infection starts in the lungs) that victim’s own immune system is the cause of sudden death

> “At all times, white blood cells circulate in the bloodstream and are the first to sense if a virus or bacteria has infiltrated the body. Immediately, other immune cells, including T-cells and macrophages, are sent to attack the infection. During this stage, a person’s immunity functions properly, and immune cells attack the microbes so they do not get too strong a foothold ”

​

> “For reasons that are not completely understood, too many immune cells can be sent to the infection site. This happens when a particular type of molecule in the body, known as cytokines, activate the immune cells at the infection site and cause more immune cells to flood the site of infection. This propagates what is referred to as a cytokine storm, where far too many immune cells are caught in an endless loop of calling more and more immune cells to fight the infection. The reaction ends up inflaming the tissue surrounding the infection.”

​

> “When the infection is in the lungs, this severe inflammation can cause permanent damage. A prolonged cytokine storm will eventually shut down breathing completely. The airways get clogged, and cells no longer properly absorb oxygen. This is what makes the reaction so deadly in certain epidemic strains, such as bird flu. Even bronchitis, other varieties of influenza, pneumonia, sepsis, and possibly rheumatoid arthritis are susceptible to triggering a cytokine storm.”

​

TLDR: the virus causes an immune response so severe (if infection starts in the lungs) that victim’s own immune system is the cause of sudden death

​

www.wisegeek.com/what-is-the-cytokine-storm.htm

​

en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cytokine_release_syndrome

Disclaimer: This content does not necessarily represent the views of IWB.