Oral Fungal Infections: Their Unexpected Connection to Alzheimer's
Fungal infections in the mouth, scientifically known as oral candidiasis, are more common than we think. These fungi, primarily Candida albicans, are a natural part of our oral microbiome. However, when they proliferate excessively, they can cause problems not only for our oral health but, surprisingly, for our brain as well.
A recent study from the Baylor College of Medicine has revealed a concerning connection between these oral infections and Alzheimer's, opening new perspectives on how caring for our oral health can directly impact long-term brain health.
The Study Revealing the Connection to Alzheimer's
Researchers at Baylor College of Medicine discovered that Candida albicans, the fungus responsible for oral candidiasis, can cross the blood-brain barrier and access the brain. There, it triggers an inflammatory response and contributes to the formation of amyloid plaques, considered precursors to Alzheimer's.
The mechanism is alarming: this fungus produces an enzyme called aspartyl protease that weakens the blood-brain barrier, facilitating its entry into the brain. Although our body has mechanisms to fight these fungi, they're not always completely effective, which underscores the importance of preventing these infections at their source.
How to Recognize an Oral Fungal Infection?
Identifying a fungal infection early can make a difference. These are the most common symptoms:
- Whitish tongue or white patches
- Persistent bad breath
- Loss of taste or alterations in taste perception
- Cotton-like feeling in the mouth
- Redness or pain in the oral mucosa
- Difficulty eating certain foods
- Cracks and redness at the corners of the lips (cheilitis)
If you experience several of these symptoms, it's advisable to consult with an oral health professional for a proper diagnosis.
Risk Factors: Who is More Prone?
Certain factors increase the likelihood of developing oral fungal infections:
- Mouth breathing (instead of nasal breathing)
- Diets high in processed carbohydrates and sugars
- Use of dental prosthetics (especially in older adults)
- Frequent use of antimicrobial mouthwashes
- Cancer treatments
- Use of inhalers (for example, for asthma)
- Tobacco consumption
- Weakened immune system
- Certain medical conditions such as diabetes or HIV
How to Prevent and Treat Oral Fungal Infections
The good news is that there are effective measures to prevent and treat these infections:
Daily Habits to Strengthen Your Oral Microbiome
- Nasal breathing: Practice nasal breathing and consider nocturnal lip sealing if you're a mouth breather.
- Proper oral hygiene: Brush your teeth correctly, use dental floss, and clean your tongue regularly.
- Tongue cleaner: Incorporate a tongue scraper or cleaner into your daily hygiene routine.
- Natural rinses: Use salt water rinses or techniques like oil pulling.
Lifestyle Changes
- Balanced diet: Reduce consumption of processed foods, sugars, and refined carbohydrates.
- Incorporate prebiotics: Consume plant-based and fermented foods to nourish your oral microbiome.
- Avoid commercial mouthwashes: Many contain alcohol and antiseptics that disrupt microbial balance.
- Proper cleaning of dentures: If you wear dentures, keep them impeccably clean.
Professional Treatments
For more severe cases, your dentist may recommend antifungal medications such as nystatin. However, it's preferable to first address the underlying causes through the lifestyle changes mentioned above.
Conclusion: Caring for Your Mouth is Caring for Your Brain
The connection between oral fungal infections and Alzheimer's reminds us of the importance of maintaining good oral health. We're not only protecting our mouth but also our brain in the long term.
It's essential to visit the dentist regularly, preferably one with a functional approach who understands these connections between oral and systemic health. Additionally, consider getting oral microbiome tests to detect imbalances before they become bigger problems.
Your oral health is the gateway to your overall wellbeing. Take care of it as it deserves.