Scientists have discovered a connection between the herpes virus type 2 and accelerated aging of the brain, which can lead to the onset of Alzheimer’s disease. The herpes virus, entering the body, remains there forever. It will not be able to heal completely. Therapy relieves symptoms in the acute stage and prevents complications. However, against the background of reduced immunity, the infection appears again. In total, doctors know eight varieties of herpes. The most well-known herpes – type 1 – manifests itself in the form of blisters, sores and cracks around the mouth and nose. Next, in terms of spread, is the herpes virus type 2, popularly known as genital herpes. As the name suggests, this virus is sexually transmitted, affecting the skin and mucous membranes in the genital area. Genital herpes not only causes discomfort and pain, but also has a negative impact on sexual and reproductive health. And recently, it was discovered another terrible consequence that genital herpes leads to. According to scientists, this infection can affect the cerebral cortex. American doctors wondered why after certain infectious diseases people’s memory deteriorates faster. Scientists from Columbia University in New York decided to track how cytomegalovirus, herpes viruses type 1 and 2, chlamydial pneumonia and helicobacteriosis are related to three indicators: the thickness of the cerebral cortex, the volume of the hippocampus (that part of the brain responsible for memory) and Alzheimer’s disease. Doctors analyzed brain MRI scans and blood test results of 455 volunteers. The average age of the participants was 70 years. In a long-term study, scientists found that people with a high titer of antibodies against genital herpes had a noticeable decrease in the thickness of the cerebral cortex, and the presence of chlamydial pneumonia combined with genital herpes further strengthened the negative effect. Our findings suggest that herpes simplex virus type 2 may accelerate brain aging, which may lead to cognitive impairment and neurodegenerative disease in the aging population,” states a scientific article. The scientists report that because of chronic latency , when the virus is present but without symptoms, exposure to genital herpes may contribute to the risk of dementia. As for other infections, including herpes virus type 1, these diseases did not affect the thickness of the cerebral cortex, nor were they associated with signs of Alzheimer’s disease. “Timely examination and prescription of antiviral and immunomodulatory drugs under the supervision of a doctor competently can reduce the frequency of symptoms of the disease, prevent a severe, complicated evolution and the further spread of the infection,” says infectious disease specialist Nikolai Ryabkov, according to actualno.com. “We need to raise awareness about herpes and develop new measures effective treatment and prevention of the virus, including vaccination”, quotes exquis.ro.
2023-12-12 23:56:30
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