What Factors Increase the Severity of COVID-19?
Although the exact cause of more severe cases of COVID-19 is still unknown, there are certain factors that can increase the risk of more severe symptoms. These factors include:
Age: Older adults and people with underlying medical conditions are more likely to experience severe symptoms of COVID-19.
Gender: Men appear to be more likely to experience severe symptoms and complications of COVID-19 than women.
Underlying Health Conditions: People with underlying health conditions, such as diabetes, heart disease, and lung disease, are more likely to experience severe symptoms and complications of COVID-19.
Obesity: People who are obese have a higher risk of severe illness from COVID-19.
Smoking: Smoking increases the risk of severe COVID-19 symptoms, as well as the risk of death.
Immune System: People with weakened immune systems are more likely to experience more severe symptoms and complications of COVID-19.