New research has revealed a worrying link between Alzheimer’s disease and a common sexually transmitted infection (STI). The study, led by the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, used advanced technologies to identify ‘HSV-1 related’ proteins in the brains of individuals with Alzheimer’s.
These proteins are specifically associated with herpes – a virus spread through vaginal, anal and oral sex that can cause a range of uncomfortable symptoms. Alarmingly, the team discovered that the STI could potentially cause ‘more harm’ and ‘accelerate neurodegeneration’ among people with Alzheimer’s.
This is particularly concerning given that seven out of every 10 people have contracted the herpes virus by the age of 25 in the UK, according to NHS statistics. Lead author, Dr Or Shemesh, explained: “Our research shows how HSV-1 interacts with the brain and influences the pathologies of Alzheimer’s disease.
“Early on, the changes in tau [brain proteins] may protect brain cells by limiting the virus, but as the disease advances, these same changes could lead to more harm and accelerate neurodegeneration.” While further research is required to fully understand why this is, Dr Shemesh’s findings suggest that immune system responses may be linked with cognitive decline.
At present, there are no known cures for either Alzheimer’s or herpes, although various treatments and medications can alleviate symptoms of both. Alzheimer’s is the most common form of dementia, characterised by a decline in brain function, while herpes typically presents more physical symptoms.
These can include small blisters around the genitals, mouth, thighs, anus or bottom, tingling around the genitals, pain when urinating and unusual discharge. The NHS explains: “Go to a GP or sexual health clinic if you’ve been diagnosed with genital herpes and need treatment for an outbreak.
“Antiviral medicine may help shorten an outbreak by 1 or 2 days if you start taking it as soon as symptoms appear. But outbreaks usually settle by themselves, so you may not need treatment.
“Recurrent outbreaks are usually milder than the first episode of genital herpes. Over time, outbreaks tend to happen less often and be less severe. Some people never have outbreaks.
“Some people who have more than 6 outbreaks in a year may benefit from taking antiviral medicine for 6 to 12 months. If you still have outbreaks of genital herpes during this time, you may be referred to a specialist.”