Herpes and Alzheimer's: Is there a connection?

Herpes and Alzheimer's: Is there a connection?

Herpes and Alzheimer's sound like two very different diseases. One is a widespread viral infection, the other a serious neurodegenerative disease. But in recent years, researchers have been investigating whether there may be a link between herpes simplex virus (HSV) – particularly HSV-1 – and the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease.

Is this something to be concerned about? And what does the research actually show?

What is Alzheimer's disease?

Alzheimer's is the most common form of dementia and is caused by the gradual breakdown of brain cells. Symptoms typically begin with memory problems and progress to loss of language, orientation and functional ability.

The cause of Alzheimer's is not yet fully understood, but genetic, environmental, and infectious factors are suspected.

What does the research say about herpes and Alzheimer's?

Several studies have demonstrated the following:

• HSV-1 (the type that typically causes cold sores on the lips) is found more often in brain tissue of people with Alzheimer's than in healthy control subjects.

• HSV-1 is believed to be able to reactivate in the brain and contribute to inflammatory conditions that, over time, can damage nerve cells.

• A British study found that people with HSV-1 and the gene APOE-e4 (a known risk factor for Alzheimer's) had a significantly higher risk of dementia than people without the virus or the gene variant.

• A large Taiwanese study from 2018 showed that people with herpes infection who received antiviral treatment had half the risk of Alzheimer's as those who did not receive treatment.

This suggests that HSV-1 may be a contributing factor, but not the direct cause, of Alzheimer's.

Does this mean that everyone with herpes gets dementia?

No – far from it. Herpes is very common, and the majority of people infected never develop Alzheimer's. The risk probably depends on:

• Genetic predisposition (especially APOE-e4)
• The immune system's ability to control viruses
• Frequency of viral reactivation

There is therefore no reason to panic, but the interest in the connection is scientifically well-founded – and relevant to follow.

What can you do yourself?

Until research knows more, it's about:

• Living healthily: sleep, exercise, good nutrition and mental stimulation
• Reducing stress, which can activate viruses
• Responding early to symptoms with care and self-care

If you get an outbreak of HSV-1, a herpes cream or gel is effective in ensuring that your herpes outbreak is as small as possible and lasts as short as possible. QUR herpes gel halves both the duration and discomfort of outbreaks, according to a 2020 study.

Conclusion

Research suggests a possible link between herpes and Alzheimer's—especially HSV-1 infections combined with a genetic predisposition. But there's no evidence yet that herpes causes dementia. The best thing you can do is take care of your body, your immune system, and your mental health.
And remember: Herpes is very common – and usually completely harmless.