Can picking your nose increase your chances of getting Alzheimer’s disease?
It may sound strange that something so innocuous as picking one’s nose can contribute to the development a degenerative disease such as Alzheimer’s. However, this is not as absurd as it seems.
The nerves of your nose are directly connected to the brain. Recent research has suggested that these nerves may act as an entry point for microorganisms which can damage the brain.
Alzheimer’s Disease & Beta-Amyloid Plaques
Alzheimer’s disease causes confusion and memory loss.
Although the cause of Alzheimer’s disease is still not known, beta-amyloid deposits in the brain are a characteristic sign.
Beta-amyloid deposits are sticky proteins that can kill and damage brain cells. Beta-amyloid deposits can cause cognitive decline and dementia as they build up within the brain.
Plaques and Infections
Multiple studies show that viral and bacteria infections can trigger processes which lead to beta-amyloid deposits in the brain.
C. The development of beta amyloid plaques has been directly linked to pneumoniae bacteria. Herpes simplex virus and other pathogens are also suspected to cause similar effects.
Alzheimer’s is not likely to develop quickly from an infection. The long-term effects of the illness could lead to a gradual accumulation in beta-amyloid deposits.
The risks of picking your nose
While picking your nose may seem like an innocent habit, it can increase your chances of contracting an infection.
By picking your nose after touching something that was contaminated by pathogenic bacteria and viruses, you have transferred these microorganisms to an area of your body where they will live and grow.
Picking at your nose can damage delicate tissues, making you more susceptible to infection.
Once an infection has taken hold in your nose it can bypass the blood-brain barriers and enter your brain.
Although there is not direct proof that picking your nose causes Alzheimer’s disease, preliminary mice research has shown that C. The pneumoniae bacteria may affect your olfactory neurons and lead to the formation of beta-amyloid deposits that are typical of Alzheimer’s.
Alzheimer’s is not caused by picking your nose. It may contribute to Alzheimer’s disease, especially if you already have a genetic predisposition.
Ask your doctor how to reduce your risk of Alzheimer’s.
