The Herpes simplex virus is commonly known for causing cold sores. However, more recent research suggests that this common virus, can lie dormant in the brain for years, but then like shingles it can flair up causing inflammation in the brain that can trigger the release of the beta amyloid plaque common to Alzheimer’s. In fact a recent study in Manchester England revealed this herpes simplex in a high percentage of Alzheimer’s patience. Moreover a study out of Wales showed that people who received the herpes zoster vaccine were on average 20% less likely to develop dementia.
Here is an interesting video by Alzheimer’s specialist Jess Montalvo, MD, on the virus and how it may contribute to classic Alzheimer’s amyloid plaque and tau tangles, with several basic suggestions for avoiding this.
Here is an interesting note from Dr. Bredesen regarding this and related viruses that may contribute to Alzheimer’s.
A link to a scholarly reviews of more than 100 studies on Herpes and the brain is posted on the David Perlmutter, M.D.s website. Dr. Perlmutter, a board certified neurologist and nutritionist, was one of the first Alzheimer’s experts in the US to sound the alarm regarding this now well documented danger to the brain. (While this is a very thorough review, it may be a bit hard for someone not trained in the field to fully understand, but you can get the essence.)
If you or someone you love has a history of cold sores, you will want to read what Dr. Bredesen has to say on this subject in his book, The End of Alzheimer’s Program, particularly on pages 249-251, which contains suggestions for tests and treatments. He notes that acyclovir or valacyclovir is a very effective medication to prevent or treat outbreaks. “Typical doses are 500 mg or 1000 mg orally, once or twice per day.” Supplements shown to be helpful include Lysine, humic or fulvic acid, and several more. See p. 251. (Anyone concerned about Alzheimer’s would do well to obtain a copy of Dr. Bredesen’s book.)
