A Link Between Herpes And Alzheimer's Disease

Unless you are a medical expert, you probably wouldn't know that contracting herpes can actually lead to the development of Alzheimer's disease later in life. Scientific discovery of this link occurred in 1979, and has been documented ever since.

Whilst it is not the case that everyone with herpes will indeed develop Alzheimer's, there is a fairly strong linkage. It all comes down to a particular gene which appears to damage a key part of the nervous system which is responsible for keeping Alzheimer's at bay.

What this means is that whilst herpes does not directly cause Alzheimer's, it doesn't weaken the system which Alzheimer's attacks, and therefore leaves you more vulnerable than someone who does not have the HSV-1 disease.

How It Happens

For the more chemically and scientifically minded, here is an explanation of why such a link exists. It all has to do with the way that the herpesvirus interacts with the receptors of lipoproteins. In partnership with the gene – Allele, the system which is responsible for motor functions is gradually degraded – not to the point where it doesn't work, but instead to the point where it is left open to developing Alzheimer's more quickly.

Interestingly, when the Allele gene is not present, there is no effect of herpes on the development of Alzheimer's, meaning that obviously the two need to be in sync with each other to have any tangible effect.

Brain Plaques

Another major linkage that has been found as between the HSV-1 virus and the creation of brain plaque. Scientists have discovered that this creation occurs in one specific part of the brain, which causes a bit of confusion between scientists studying the linkage.

If not for any other reason, the facts above should be enough to make you a little bit scared of the herpes virus. Most people simply think that the herpesvirus creates an unsightly cold sore, but when this clears up, there is no lasting damage.

Now, you are able to understand that indeed there are long-term effects of herpes, and hence you should be doing everything that you can to avoid contracting it.

If you already have it however, there is no need to be overly concerned. Perhaps you could mention it to your doctor the next time you see them, and see if they can provide you with any advice on dietary changes or lifestyle changes which could halt any degradation of brain cells.