They can also cause behavioural and psychological changes in the affected person.

Neuropathologist Elaine Bearer was curious after discovering unidentifiable "glassy blobs" in the brains of two people who had dementia, as reported by Chemical & Engineering News. Bearer could not discern what they were made of or where they came from until she heard about University of New Mexico researcher Matthew Campen's ongoing study. Campen had been testing brain tissue for microplastics. ### What's happening? Bearer sent samples of the masses from the dementia patients' cadavers to Campen and his team. It was found that dementia-associated brain tissue had five times the microplastics as non-dementia tissue samples. With this information, Bearer and her associates developed a microscopy method and found that the masses from the brains are, in fact, made of microplastics and nanoplastics. Bearer said "this is the first time ever" that these masses, which other doctors have found, as well, have been identified as being plastic. She told Chemical & Engineering News that the large amount of microplastics in the brains "seem to be" dementia-related. However, there has been no official confirmation that microplastics play a role in developing dementia. | # FROM OUR PARTNER # Find the best HVAC solution to heat and cool your home more efficiently Mitsubishi Electric’s efficient heating and cooling HVAC solutions can help you stay comfortable no matter the weather or region. You can even regulate temperatures in each room with individually controlled all-electric heat pump systems. With an energy-efficient, all-climate system from Mitsubishi, you can reduce the amount of energy needed to heat and cool your home, receive up to $2,000 in tax credits, and get peace of mind knowing you’re choosing rigorously tested, high-quality products. Get Started --- ### Why are microplastics important? Microplastics have invaded our oceans, our planet, and our bodies. Particles have been found in various organs and are circulating through the bloodstream as a result of plastic inhalation and ingestion. Scientists are still working to understand fully how these tiny plastic particles, less than five millimeters in size, impact the human body, the Oceanic Preservation Society said. However, it suggested that microplastics and nanoplastics in the body may interfere with cell function, activate inflammatory pathways, and produce reactive oxygen species. These occurrences can lead to various types of chronic illness, such as dementia. This harm to the human body, of course, impacts the natural world, as well. Wildlife also faces the effects of inhaling and ingesting microplastics, which can further deteriorate the planet's biodiversity. ### What can I do about microplastics? The everyday consumer has the power to stop, or at least reduce, the spread of microplastics. By limiting household plastic waste, you can lower your carbon footprint. ## TCD Picks » Upway Spotlight 💡Upway makes it easy to find discounts of up to 60% on premium e-bike brands ### These city bikes are perfect for daily rides Starting at $599 ### Tackle any climb with these rugged mountain bikes Starting at $849 ### Go farther and faster with this road collection Starting at $1,119 ### These adorable bikes fold up for convenient storage Starting at $749 ### Snag limited-time price drops on these top models Starting at $849 You can cut down on microplastic consumption and spread by not microwaving plastic containers, filtering your tap water, wearing clothes made of natural fibers, and making your own cleaners, according to BlueCross BlueShield of Vermont. **How do you feel about microplastics being inside our bodies?** ** I want them out now 🚫 ** ** I'm a little concerned 🤔 ** ** I'm not too worried 🤷 ** ** I don't care 😎 ** Click your choice to see results and speak your mind. Join our free newsletter for weekly updates on the latest innovations **improving our lives** and **shaping our future** , and don't miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet. * share * __ Facebook * __ Twitter * __ Link Copied! ## Cool Picks #### How the Expedia of solar panels helps homeowners save money and avoid a common trap: 'Giving you confidence in the systems' #### This innovative company will install solar panels on your roof with no upfront costs — here's how its business model works #### Startup turns grocery shopping into an adventure with 70% discounts: 'A fun experience akin to a treasure hunt' #### New analysis reveals next-gen HVACs can save homeowners over $10,000 — here's how to buy one with government incentives

Researchers found a shocking amount of microplastics in the brains of people with dementia.

Vascular dementia is caused by blood flow issues in the brain: it's one of the most common types of dementia, but not as well researched or understood as others. Neuropathologist Elaine Bearer from the University of New Mexico is trying to change that. In a recent review, she has suggested new categorizations for vascular dementia, each with unique pathologies – the actual biological changes in tissues and organs.

Let’s talk about COVID, brain damage & society. Specifically, what happens when a neurotropic virus repeatedly infects the population, targeting the frontal lobe & almost nobody talks about the consequences? This thread is for the skeptics. I’m a neurologist, stay with me 🧵 https://t.co/fbMIhtObaz