Dementia and infection: Flu is a seasonal infection that occurs in most people. But can you imagine that infections like flu, herpes infection or respiratory tract can increase the risk of dementia.
Yes, a recently published study says that infections like flu and herpes are associated with brain atrophy and dementia and if the infections persist then the risk of dementia increases. This study also indicated biological factors that contribute to neurodegenerative diseases. This study published in Nature Aging provides useful data about Alzheimer’s disease and dementia.
Dementia can increase due to flu and herpes infection
Other studies have shown that the risk of dementia can be reduced through flu shots and shingles vaccine. Infections like flu and herpes can further lead to stroke and heart attack. The study says that some serious infections like flu, herpes and respiratory tract infection can badly affect mental health.
Even minor infections can affect the thinking and understanding processes of the brain. This can also change the way the brain behaves. Whereas serious infection is not at all good for brain capacity and immune response. The study says that it is not possible at present to think that an infection can play a big role in neurodegenerative diseases, but after the Corona epidemic, this has started to be thought about.
Risk of vascular dementia increases
The infections examined in this study include flu, herpes, respiratory tract infection and skin infection. All these have been found to be associated with brain loss i.e. brain atrophy. The study says that these infections do not immediately increase the risk of dementia. Years after this, the risk of dementia and Alzheimer’s increases. This increased risk is associated with vascular dementia. Vascular dementia is recognized as the second most common form of dementia after Alzheimer’s because it is caused by blockage of blood in the brain.
Disclaimer: Some of the information given in the news is based on media reports. Before implementing any suggestion, you must consult the concerned expert.
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