Could internet addiction be making you ill?

People with greater levels of internet addiction are more likely to be vulnerable to colds and flu bugs, according to research by Swansea University.

Swansea University academics have release an animated film that highlights how excessive internet usage could cause damage to the immune system.

• Video credit: Swansea University

It evaluated 500 people aged 18 to 101 years old and found that those who reported over-using the internet also reported having more cold and flu symptoms than those people who did not report excessive use of the internet.

People with greater levels of internet addiction had around 30% more cold and flu symptoms than those with less problematic internet usage.

The study suggested that those who are addicted to the internet may suffer from great stress when they are disconnected from the net, and this cycle of stress and relief associated with internet addiction may lead to altered levels of cortisol - a hormone that impacts immune function.