British scientists have conducted a number of studies to prove that inflammation in the brain of an elderly person due to infection negatively affects the mechanisms of memory, spatial memories, writes medical News Today. Reduced immunity in old age leads to more serious infections that can cause cognitive impairment. The presence of inflammation in the nervous tissue is one of the causes of Alzheimer's disease and dementia.

To confirm his theory, Dr. Garrison, together with his colleagues, conducted an experiment in which 20 people took part.. Half received injections with saline (placebo), the second group was vaccinated against typhoid. Further, the subjects were examined on the apparatus using the technique of positron emission tomography. The method made it possible to assess the degree of inflammation in the brain.

The study proved that the presence of inflammation leads to a decrease in the level of glucose metabolism in the medial temporal lobe. This structure is responsible for the adequate perception of space.

. With reduced metabolism, spatial memory is impaired. Note that procedural memory was not affected.

Experts are sure: a simple infection is enough to damage memory. Elderly people at particular risk. The presence of an acute or chronic infection in them can serve as a provoking factor for the development of Alzheimer's disease. Controlling inflammation will give a chance to reduce the progressive deterioration of mental capacity..

aspekty. net.