It's a centrepiece of the festive season in homes across the nation - but your Christmas tree could actually be the reason behind your winter sniffles.
Runny noses and coughs at this time of year may actually be caused by mould growth and pollen on the festive fir - and the longer it is up, the worse you could feel.
Dubbed Christmas Tree Syndrome, it causes hayfever-like symptoms including itchy nose, watery eyes, wheezing, coughing, chest pains, lethargy and insomnia - and even leads to pneumonia in rare serious cases.
Sufferers may start sneezing and coughing when in the presence of a Christmas tree, but may not even be aware it's causing an allergic reaction.
Some 35 per cent of people suffer from an increase of hay fever-like symptoms over the festive season with pine Christmas trees causing most of the problems, according to Prevalin Allergy.
Boffins discovered the condition after they saw an increase in respiratory problems in the weeks leading up to and shortly after December 25.
The mould harboured on trees releases spores that can trigger allergic reactions in people who are susceptible.
While it is naturally occurring, the process of bringing the tree inside creates the perfect environment for it to grow.
Allergy UK urge people to hose the tree down before placing it in a cold area in the house to stop the mould from multiplying.
Experts recommend spraying it with a mild bleach solution just before you take the tree into the house - as this will help kill off the mould.
For those turning to artificial tress, layers of dust can also be a problem, especially for people with asthma or respiratory problems.
Allergy UK suggest wiping down the tree and decorations with a damp cloth to remove dust and mould that build up during storage.
After Christmas, store your tree in plastic rather than cardboard to reduce problems for the following year.
