There is limited evidence that nose-picking increases your risk of Alzheimer's. It requires more research.

Alzheimer's disease is a type of dementia that occurs when proteins accumulate in the brain and cause irreversible damage to brain regions. Memory loss, difficulty speaking and writing, and an inability to take care of yourself are some of the symptoms that eventually result from this type of brain damage.

Although there is growing evidence, it is still difficult to say for sure whether nose picking has a direct link with Alzheimer’s risk.

Continue reading to learn more about the research findings, proven risks associated with nose picking, and self-prevention strategies. 

Can Nose Picking Lead to Alzheimer’s?

The underlying idea behind the link between nose picking and Alzheimer's disease is that it involves putting foreign substances or infectious material into your nose.

However, scientists have not done any human studies, and the evidence is primarily theoretical.

A narrative review published in 2023 offers the most comprehensive analysis of the relationship between infections that can enter the nose, such as bacteria, viruses, or fungus, and brain inflammation [1].

The authors addressed the possibility that infectious microorganisms on the fingers could enter the olfactory system—a group of organs that aids the brain in interpreting smells—when you put your fingertips inside your nasal passages.

Like the rest of your body, your nose and olfactory system have a distinct nasal microbiome, a collection of beneficial microorganisms. However, these pathogens can start living among the beneficial bacteria and ultimately take over your nose and olfactory system permanently.

Furthermore, your brain and olfactory system are directly connected. It implies that low-grade, persistent pathogenic microorganisms in your olfactory system may also reach your brain and induce long-lasting inflammation that can remain undetected for a long time [2[.

According to the authors, this type of brain inflammation may contribute to the formation of proteins and other compounds that are risk factors for Alzheimer's, such as amyloid beta peptides, tau proteins, and plaques.

A study conducted on mice in 2022 discovered that a particular type of bacteria known as Chlamydia pneumoniae might pass through the blood-brain barrier, which shields the brain from external pathogens [3]. It may result in chronic inflammation of the brain, comparable to what raises the risk of Alzheimer's disease in people.

Confirmed Risks of Nose Picking

No conclusive evidence currently exists for whether nose picking is directly associated with Alzheimer’s risk.

However, research has confirmed other risks of nose picking, including [4]:

• Increased risk of respiratory infections introduced via your nose, such as COVID-19 and pneumonia.
• Causing harm or injury to tissues that may cause the cartilage in your nose to break down over time.
• Desensitizing or damaging your nasal hairs that safeguard the nasal passage from infections like nasal vestibulitis.

How to Stop Nose Picking

Here are some tips that you can follow to stop nose picking and reduce its possible health risks.

• Hydrate the nasal tissues using nasal irrigation or a saline rinse to lessen mucus accumulation, dryness, and irritation.
• Keep tissues close at hand and use them rather than your finger to blow or wipe your nose.
• Wash your hands frequently or use hand sanitizer to keep your fingertips clean.
• Wrap a bandage over your fingers as a reminder not to put your fingers up your nose.

Allergies can drive you to pick your nose because it is itchy or continually dripping. To lessen itching and other allergy symptoms, consult a physician or allergist about allergy drugs like hydroxyzine.

Psychological Reason Behind Nose Picking

When you're anxious or agitated, you may find yourself picking your nose more often. This type of compulsive nose picking is known as rhinotillexomania [5].

Pulling out nose hairs or constantly picking your nose are symptoms of two different forms of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) called trichotillomania] and excoriation disorder.

You can stop picking your nose by addressing the underlying causes of your anxiety or stress, or you can work with a therapist or mental health expert to address the issues that are causing your nose picking.

The Bottom Line

There is minimal evidence that picking your nose is directly related to your risk of Alzheimer's. 

However, inflammation in your brain associated with pathogens in your nose implies that there may be a correlation between nose picking and some of the underlying causes of Alzheimer's.

If you are worried about the impact of your nose picking on your health, contact a medical expert. 

Alzheimer’s Research Association is a non-profit organization dedicated to helping caregivers of Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. We provide the latest information and news about the illness and helpful tips to help caregivers cope with their daily caregiving challenges. We realize the most important thing that a caregiver needs is financial assistance. Therefore, we provide grants to caregivers to ease their financial burden. Caregivers can apply for grants here: Alzheimer's Grant Application. 

You can also help caregivers in their endeavor by donating as much as possible: Donation To Alzheimer's Research Associations.