A recent study suggests a concerning connection between the common habit of nose picking and the development of Alzheimer’s disease, a progressive neurodegenerative condition currently affecting over 7 million individuals in the United States. While many people engage in this seemingly innocuous behavior, researchers are investigating the potential health risks associated with the introduction of bacteria into the nasal cavity.
90% of the general population reportedly engages in nose picking at some point, often without considering the consequences. This habit can introduce harmful bacteria, leading to infections that may result in tissue damage, crusting, and nosebleeds. Emerging research indicates that trauma to the nasal lining could facilitate the transfer of pathogens to the brain, igniting inflammation and the formation of amyloid plaques, which are characteristic of Alzheimer’s disease.
The connection between the nose and the brain is critical, as it serves as a direct pathway to the central nervous system. Researchers have begun focusing on this nose-brain axis to understand how certain conditions, including Alzheimer’s, develop. The olfactory system, responsible for processing smells, is often one of the first areas affected by Alzheimer’s, prompting scientists to explore smell tests as a non-invasive method for assessing Alzheimer’s risk.
A pivotal study conducted by researchers at Griffith University in Australia in 2022 provided new insights into this issue. The study revealed that nose picking could allow the bacterium Chlamydia pneumoniae, known for causing respiratory infections, to enter the olfactory nerve in mice. Once inside the brain, the bacteria can lead to the accumulation of amyloid beta protein, resulting in the formation of plaques that disrupt neuronal communication and contribute to memory loss and dementia.
In the words of neuroscientist James St John, who published the findings in Scientific Reports, “We’re the first to show that Chlamydia pneumoniae can go directly up the nose and into the brain, where it can set off pathologies that look like Alzheimer’s disease.” His research highlights the potential implications for humans, warranting further investigation into the risks associated with this common behavior.
A subsequent review in March 2023 suggested that neuroinflammation associated with Alzheimer’s might be partially attributable to pathogens entering the brain via the olfactory system. Researchers theorized that these microorganisms could alter the bacterial makeup within the nasal cavity, potentially leading to chronic low-level brain infections and inflammation linked to Alzheimer’s.
In light of these findings, Betsy Grunch, a board-certified neurosurgeon, advises the public to practice good nasal hygiene to protect the delicate lining of the nose. She emphasizes the importance of avoiding nose picking and removing nasal hairs, and suggests regular hand washing and the use of hand sanitizer for those who struggle with the habit.
As research continues to explore the connections between nasal health and neurological conditions, it is critical for individuals to be mindful of their habits. The implications of such studies are significant, not only for personal health but also for broader public awareness of Alzheimer’s disease and its potential triggers.
