Scientists have made a groundbreaking discovery in the fight against Alzheimer’s disease by examining the brain’s neurovascular unit and breathing patterns. Researchers at the University of Lancaster and the University of Ljubljana Medical Centre found that individuals with Alzheimer’s disease exhibit disrupted breathing patterns, taking approximately 17 breaths per minute compared to 13 breaths per minute for those without the condition.
The study used a combination of monitoring devices to analyze the brain’s electrical activity, oxygenation, heart rate, and breathing patterns. The results showed that oscillations in oxygenation and blood flow were disrupted in Alzheimer’s patients, indicating impaired oxygen delivery to the brain. This finding suggests that inflammation in the brain may be a contributing factor to the disease.
The discovery could lead to the development of non-invasive, affordable diagnostic tools for Alzheimer’s disease, potentially preventing severe states of the condition.
Source: https://newatlas.com/brain/alzheimers-dementia/faster-breathing-alzheimers