Key Facts

• The first health problem was caused by West Nile virus, which made his brain swell and required six days in the hospital.
• The second was a serious staph infection from a skin wound that almost led to sepsis and lasted for months despite antibiotics.
• Doctors found his immune system was weakened, possibly due to high stress from work.
• Therapy revealed his job caused physical stress responses like increased heart rate and chest tightness.
• His doctor warned that continuing the job could cause a fatal heart attack before age 50.
• The doctor advised either quitting the job or being hospitalized for a month on intravenous treatment.
• The man’s company allowed him to take an immediate sabbatical, and his health improved soon after.
• Prior to the illnesses, he had signs of stress like poor sleep, anxiety symptoms, and marriage troubles.