Nose-picking is not an unusual habit. According to studies from 1995, around 91 percent of people pick their noses from time to time. But, this gross yet common habit might be dangerous, as a university professor recently revealed.
Picking your nose is linked to risks of Alzheimer's disease
Illustration. Image credit: Depositphotos
The head of the Clem Jones Centre for Neurobiology and Stem Cell Research at Griffith University in Queensland, Australia, Professor St John, shared a lesser-known reason why you should stop picking your nose for good.
Why you shouldn't pluck hairs from your nose
Illustration. Image credit: Depositphotos
In his TikTok video, the professor said:
"Picking your nose or plucking the hairs from your nose is probably not a good idea, particularly if you don't want to get Alzheimer's disease."
Nose lining damage
Illustration. Image credit: Shutterstock
He explained, "If you damage the nose lining, you can increase how many bacteria can go up into your brain."
Bacteria developing Alzheimer's disease
Illustration. Image credit: Shutterstock
St John then shared that research found that certain bacteria are linked to developing Alzheimer's.
From your nasal cavity to your brain
Illustration. Image credit: Depositphotos
The bacteria, called Chlamydia Pneumoniae, can get to your brain through the nerves of the nasal cavity, Griffith University researchers confirmed.
Pathway to Alzheimer's disease
Illustration. Image credit: Shutterstock
Once it is inside, in a matter of days, the brain cells deposit beta-amyloid peptide, creating a pathway to Alzheimer's disease.
Important defenders against bacteria
Illustration. Image credit: Shutterstock
Associate Professor Ekberg, who was part of the research team, explained that the cells are "important defenders against bacteria." Still, they can "help the bacteria to spread if they get infected."
Bacteria or virus
Illustration. Image credit: Shutterstock
The team suspected that bacteria or even a virus could be linked to Alzheimer's, and they were the first to prove it.
Genetic susceptibility
Illustration. Image credit: Depositphotos.
However, "the bacteria alone may not be enough to cause disease in someone," Ekberg stated, adding that perhaps: "it requires the combination of a genetic susceptibility plus the bacteria to lead to Alzheimer's disease in the long term."
How quickly the bacteria travel to the brain
Illustration. Image credit: Shutterstock
Going back to Professor St John's video, he explained:
"Once the bacteria get into the olfactory nerve, it's only a short and very quick journey for them to get up into the brain where they can start causing these pathologies of Alzheimer's disease."
The study was developed over the years
Illustration. Image credit: Shutterstock
The study lasted for several years and required researchers to grow their own cells, infect them, and see the reactions.
Professor St John suggests smell tests for Alzheimer's
Illustration. Image credit: Shutterstock
Though one part of the study was concluded, Professor St John claims there is still a long way to go. He suggested that smell tests might be a good part of the screening process for the disease.
65 years old and above are at risk
Illustration. Image credit: Shutterstock
He then added: "Once you get over 65 years old, your risk factor goes right up, but we're looking at other causes because it's not just age. It is environmental exposure as well. And we think that bacteria and viruses are critical."
Why you should stop picking your nose from now on
Illustration. Image credit: Shutterstock
There are many reasons you should stop picking your nose.
No one is saying that the nasty habit of picking your nose will undoubtedly lead to Alzheimer's, but there is enough evidence for anyone to start working on breaking this habit.
Other reasons why it's dangerous
Illustration. Image credit: Depositphotos
Among other reasons why you should stop picking your nose are septum damage, nose bleeding, various infections, and nasal cavity damage.
More From Womenio
Image credit: Dzmitry Held via Canva.com
What you rarely see in fashion magazines is what women wear that men love. Here are 21 Things Women Wear That Men LOVE
20 Weird Things People Find Extremely Attractive That Most DON'T
Illustration. Image credit: katyasmailey via Canva.com.
Everyone's got their own idea of what they find attractive, and sometimes it's something a little unconventional. Here are 20 Weird Things People Find Extremely Attractive That Most DON'T
30 Things Men Should Wear to Drive Women WILD - (According to Women)
Illustration. Image credit: Shutterstock
Here is what you should wear to drive them crazy: 30 Things Men Should Wear to Drive Women WILD - (According to Women)
25 Popular Things Women Wear That Men Secretly Hate
Image credit: Depositphotos
From your favorite accessories right down to the choices of footwear, here is a list of fashion items men wish women stopped wearing: 25 Popular Things Women Wear That Men Secretly Hate
33 Dirty Company Secrets Revealed By Employees That We Are Not Supposed To Know
Illustration. Image credit: Shutterstock
Learn what various industries tried to hide from outsiders straight from the employees: 33 Dirty Company Secrets Revealed By Employees That We Are Not Supposed To Know
Source: TikTok
Sylvia Silverstone is a passionate writer who loves to share her knowledge and expertise on a wide range of topics, including beauty, life hacks, entertainment, health, news, and money. With a keen eye for detail and a talent for storytelling, Sylvia's engaging writing style keeps readers coming back for more.
Leave a Reply