England's 4-2 World Cup Win Triggers Reporter's Stress Response, Lifting Cortisol to 5.15 nmol/L
Updated
Updated · BBC.com · Jun 22
England's 4-2 World Cup Win Triggers Reporter's Stress Response, Lifting Cortisol to 5.15 nmol/L
2 articles · Updated · BBC.com · Jun 22
Summary
A monitored England supporter showed a classic stress response during the 4-2 win over Croatia, with cortisol rising from 4.19 to 5.15 nmol/L by full time.
Kane's retaken penalty produced the sharpest reaction: heart rate jumped from the low-50s to 69 beats per minute within half a second, while blood pressure rose and breathing changes briefly reduced brain blood flow.
University of South Wales researchers said the readings resembled mild exercise and quick recovery, suggesting the match stress was not harmful for this relatively fit, calm subject.
The scientists cautioned that more stress-sensitive fans could see heart rates surge by 50 to 60 beats per minute, and people with existing heart or brain conditions could face fainting or, in extreme cases, a heart attack.