People who pick their nose 'at higher risk of developing Alzheimer's'

Nose picking is associated with an increased risk of developing Alzheimer's Disease, a study published in the journal Biomolecules found.

The Australian researchers suggest that this habit could introduce harmful pathogens into the nasal cavity, leading to inflammation and a higher risk of dementia.

The study explains that when someone picks their nose, bacteria, viruses, and fungi could enter the brain through the cavity. This process can contribute to neuroinflammation, which is known to lead to the build-up of harmful amyloid beta proteins, commonly found in the brains of those diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease.

Nose picking, or rhinotillexomania as it's scientifically known, is thought to increase the transfer of harmful microorganisms from the hand into the nose. This alters the nasal microbiome, changing it from a beneficial environment to a potentially harmful one.

The research suggests that hand-to-nose contact allows potentially dangerous bacteria to travel through the olfactory system, responsible for our sense of smell, and reach the brain. Once there, these pathogens can cause inflammation, potentially leading to neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's.

The researchers highlight the importance of hand hygiene to prevent disease. They suggest that regular cleanliness habits, like washing hands often and using hand sanitisers, should be a must for those who pick their noses.

The study indicates that germs introduced through nose-picking can lead to harmful changes in the brain. These germs can live in the nose for a long time before dementia symptoms show up.

The study also looks at specific germs linked to Alzheimer's, including the herpes simplex virus, bacteria that cause pneumonia, fungi, and parasites. The researchers mention experiments with mice infected through their noses, showing a direct link between germs entering through the nose and the creation of amyloid plaques.

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