‘Tis the season for runny eyes, headaches and coughs and sneezes to ring round the office.
But, if you’re suffering, did you know it’s not your cold making you feel so terrible?
If you’ve ever uttered the words ‘bloody cold’ you’re technically wrong.
That’s because it’s not the viruses that make you feel unwell, it’s actually your body’s response.
Yes, when it comes to colds, you are your own worst enemy.
Medical Director of Bupa UK Dr Lizzie Tuckey said: ‘Past studies do suggest that our immune system, rather than the virus, makes us feel unwell.
‘The immune system detects the virus and floods the area with white blood cells and chemical messengers, and these trigger various symptoms such as headaches and a blocked nose.’