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HomeAre Sinus Infections From Allergies Contagious

Are Sinus Infections From Allergies Contagious

Are Sinus Infections Contagious No But An Underlying Virus Can Be

Sinus Infections Caused by Allergies
  • Sinus infections are not contagious.
  • However, if your sinus infection is caused by a virus, that virus can be contagious and if it spreads to someone else, they will be at a higher risk of getting a sinus infection, too.
  • Heres how you can recognize and treat a sinus infection in order to reduce risk and prevent the spread of any contagious illness.
  • Visit Insiders Health Reference library for more advice.

Sinus infections affect about 31 million Americans a year, according to the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology .

If your sinus infection is caused by a virus, that virus may be contagious, but not the sinus infection itself. If your sinus infection is caused by bacteria or allergies, you likely wont be contagious at all.

Heres what you need to know about the common causes of sinus infections, how to treat them, and how to reduce your risk of getting one.

Is A Bacterial Sinus Infection

A bacterial sinus infection is caused when mucus builds up in the sinus cavities and bacteria begin to grow. Since bacterial sinus infections generally happen as a result of some other mucus buildup, and the bacteria is largely contained within the sinus cavities. They are not considered contagious.

Can You Pass A Sinus Infection To Someone

Yes, you can pass on the infection to someone else. If you have an infectious rhinovirus, it is vital to stay home from work or school and keep your child from going to daycare until the symptoms are gone.

In addition, you need to get plenty of rest and drink plenty of fluids. You should visit a healthcare provider for an antibiotic prescription when you have a sinus infection that doesnt improve with over-the-counter medications, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen. Sometimes, you may need nasal sprays containing steroids to help clear the infection.

Doctors prescribe antibiotics if you have sinusitis caused by a secondary bacterial infection. However, it is only possible to determine what kind of bacteria is causing your secondary infection by having it diagnosed by a doctor first.

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Turns Out It Depends On Whats Causing Your Sinusitis Heres What To Know

Amanda Gardner is a freelance health reporter whose stories have appeared in cnn.com, health.com, cnn.com, WebMD, HealthDay, Self Magazine, the New York Daily News, Teachers & Writers Magazine, the Foreign Service Journal, AmeriQuests and others. In 2009, she served as writer-in-residence at the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health. She is also a community artist and recipient or partner in five National Endowment for the Arts grants.

Even though sinus infections are often caused by contagious organisms like viruses and bacteria, experts are not completely agreed on whether the infections themselves can be spread.

Part of the confusion lies in the fact that sinus infections can be caused by so many different things. A sinus infection can be caused by viruses or bacteria that cause inflammation where the sinuses drain into the nose, explains Lisa Liberatore, MD, an ear, nose, and throat specialist at Lenox Hill Hospital in New York City.

The sinuses are a series of bony cavities in your skull designed to keep foreign particles like dust and germs out of your body. Theyre lined with mucus to trap those particles then, little hair-like projections called cilia sweep back to front to jettison the invaders from your body.

But inflammation can cause the mucus to get trapped, Dr. Liberatore says, and then germs can grow, which can lead to a sinus infection, or sinusitis.

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Are Sinus Infections Contagious

Sinus Infection: Is it Contagious?
Dr. Menachof, MD, has specialized in conditions around the head, throat, ear, nose, neck and face for over 20 years, and was the first to bring sublingual allergy drops to Colorado in 2005. He has been recognized as a Fellow by multiple academies, named one of Americas Top Facial Plastic Surgeons continually since 2003 and is featured in multiple national publications.

Though sinus infections arent contagious, the underlying cause of the infection for example, a virus like the common cold is often contagious. If youre dealing with a sinus infection that just wont go away, our specialists at Advanced ENT & Allergy Center will discover the root cause of your symptoms and help you find lasting relief.

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How To Treat A Sinus Infection

When you develop a sinus infection, you can do several things on your own to ease your symptoms. Dr. Varghese recommends, over-the-counter pain relievers, decongestants, and nasal sprays. Humidifiers can also help.

Here are some other at-home remedies and commercially available medications to help you feel better:

  • Over-the-counter antihistamines. Seasonal allergy medications can help reduce sinus inflammation if youre suffering from allergy-induced sinusitis.
  • Warm compresses. Applying a warm compress to your face can help ease discomfort and open your nasal passages so you can breathe easier.
  • Sinus rinses. Flushing your nose with water from a neti pot can help remove excess mucus from your sinuses, which will help you feel less congested.

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Describing A Sinus Infection By Cause

Another way to describe a sinus infection is by what kind of germ causes it. Most sinus infections are caused by viruses, just like the common cold.

Viral sinus infections generally end on their own without any medical intervention. They usually only affect the upper respiratory system, with symptoms like runny nose, sore throat, facial pressure, congestion and headache.

But sometimes viral infections can turn into bacterial infections. Inflamed, blocked-off sinuses encourage the kind of moist, vulnerable environment where bacteria can thrive.

You might have a bacterial sinus infection if your symptoms linger beyond about a week. If your drainage turns yellow or green, that could mean your viral infection has turned bacterial.

Bacterial sinus infections typically need a little help from antibiotics to clear up.

Lastly, even though the vast majority of sinus infections are caused by viruses and bacteria, it is possible to have a sinus infection caused by a fungus. Most fungal sinus infections are caused by an allergic reaction to a fungus in the air, like black mold. This type is called allergic fungal sinusitis.

Another type of fungal sinus infection called invasive fungal sinusitis exists, but is extremely rare. People who are otherwise healthy dont get this infection. This type of infection is possible in severely immunocompromised people, such as those going through chemotherapy or with poorly controlled diabetes.

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About Author: Lisa Coon

Lisa Coon is a Writing Coordinator for OSF HealthCare, where she has worked since August 2016. A Peoria native, she is a graduate of Bradley University with a degree in journalism. Previously, she worked as a reporter and editor at several newspapers in Iowa and Illinois.She lives in Groveland with her husband and son. In her free time she likes to cook, bake and read. She freely admits that reality TV is a weakness, and she lives by the quote, The beach is good for the soul.

Sinus Treatment At Tufts Medical Center Community Care

How to tell the difference between Allergies, Sinus Infections, and COVID-19

A clinical affiliate of Tufts Medical Center and multispecialty medical group, Tufts Medical Center Community Care includes family medicine doctors, internists and ENT specialists who provide world-class care to pediatric and adult patients with chronic and acute sinus infections. To schedule an appointment at one of our easily accessible locations in north suburban Boston, contact our friendly team today.

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Complications Of Sinus Infection

Sinus inflammation can spread to the bones and soft tissues of the face and eyes. This can cause:

  • Cellulitis of the face or around the eyes
  • Abscesses of the eyes

Left intreated, sinus infections can also lead to serious intracranial complications, including blood clots within the cavernous sinus, pus between the skulls and dura mater , and meningitis.

Sinusitis : When Should I Call The Doctor

  • a cold that lasts for more than 710 days without improvement
  • a cold that seems to be getting worse after 7 days of symptoms
  • symptoms of allergies that don’t clear with the usual allergy medicine

Also call if your child shows any other signs of worsening sinusitis, such as:

  • pain or pressure in the cheeks or around the eyes
  • swelling around the eye

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How Long Do These Symptoms Last

How long these symptoms last will vary based on several factors. That being said, acute viral sinusitis typically only lasts 7-10 days. Cases lasting longer are likely the result of bacterial infections and may require a trip to the doctor for antibiotics. We have created a separate page with specific information on how to get your smell and taste back.

Chronic sinus infections last at least 12 weeks.

How Is Sinusitis Diagnosed

Is a #SinusInfection #Contagious? Click for #Facts

Often, your healthcare provider can diagnosis sinusitis based on your symptoms and a physical exam. Sometimes other tests are done. These may include:

  • Cultures from the nose

  • Sinus computed tomography . This imaging method uses X-rays and computer technology to make images of the body.

Your healthcare provider will figure out the best care based on:

  • How old you are

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First Know What Youre Dealing With: A Sinus Infection Simply Means That Your Sinuses Are Inflamed Or Infected

Behind the upper bones of your face, youve got a set of four sinuses around your noseand the same kind of tissue that lines your nose also lines your sinuses. Just as allergies or a bad cold can irritate your nasal passages and give you a stuffy nose, they can also cause one or more of your sinuses to puff up.

When this happens, your sinuses cant drain as well as they usually do and mucus gets clogged up in there, building up sometimes painful pressure and providing a home for germs to multiply and in turn potentially lead to an infection, explains Inna Husain, MD, an ENT and assistant professor of otolaryngology at Rush Medical College in Chicago, Illinois.

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What Is The Likelihood Of Getting Others Sick

Duration of symptoms can help determine the cause of infection and whether or not it is contagious. A sinus infection caused by a viral infection lasts about seven to 10 days, meaning youll be contagious with the virus for up to two weeks.

If your symptoms last more than 10 days, or if they subside after a week then return again a few days later, you likely have a bacterial sinus infection that cannot be spread. However, bacterial sinus infections are rare accounting for only about two percent of all sinus infections.

For more information about sinus infections or to schedule an appointment with an ENT physician, today.

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Transmission: How Do You Get Sinus Infections

A sinus is a small cavity in the body, specifically in organs or tissues. When most people think of sinuses, though, they are thinking of paranasal sinuses, located in the skull around and connecting to the nose. A sinus infection occurs when these cavities become inflamed.

How does this inflammation occur? There are several potential causes of sinusitis , including:

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Sinus Infections: Are They Contagious

Sinus Infections: Symptoms may be more than just allergies

If you have a viral sinus infection, its possible to transmit the virus. But this does not guarantee another person will develop a sinus infection.

Are sinus infections contagious?

If your sinus infection is caused by a virus, its possible to spread that virus to another person. This could cause them to develop a cold, which could then develop into a sinus infection.

Sinus infections arent always caused by a virus. Bacteria and fungi can sometimes also cause infections. If bacteria cause a sinus infection, then its not contagious.

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Pay Close Attention To Symptoms To Determine If Cause Is Sinus Infection Or Allergies

Dear Mayo Clinic:

I have long suffered from allergies. But there have been times when I havent been sure if my symptoms are really from my allergies or may be caused by a sinus infection instead. How can I tell the difference?

Answer:

Allergies and sinus infections are often mistaken for one another. But they are two separate conditions. By paying close attention to the specific symptoms you have, you can usually identify which one is more likely to be causing the problem.

A sinus infection, also called sinusitis, affects the cavities around your nasal passages. The infection causes your sinuses to become inflamed and swollen. The swelling makes it hard for your sinuses to drain, and mucus builds up. You become congested and have trouble breathing through your nose. Sinusitis often causes thick yellow or green nasal discharge. A sore throat, cough or headache, as well as pressure or tenderness around your eyes, cheeks, nose or forehead, may also accompany sinusitis.

In most cases, viruses cause sinusitis. These viral infections usually go away on their own within a week to 10 days. Self-care measures such as extra rest and fluids along with over-the-counter pain relievers and decongestants can help. When sinusitis is caused by bacteria, the infection may not require treatment, either. But if it is persistent or severe, then antibiotics such as amoxicillin, doxycycline and others may be used to treat the infection.

Is It A Cold Or Sinus Infection And Am I Contagious

You wake up with a runny nose, headache, tenderness under your eyes and around your nose and maybe a cough. Is it a cold or is it a sinus infection?

Colds can progress into a sinus infection as they both are caused by a virus. But there are times where bacteria can cause a sinus infection.

Its important to know the difference, said Melinda Cooling, vice president of advanced practice providers at OSF HealthCare and chief clinician executive for OSF Saint Gabriel Digital Health.

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Are Sinus Infections Contagious Through Kissing

I wouldnt recommend kissing someone when you have a sinus infection. The actual sinus infection is not contagious but the underlying cause may be contagious, Dr. Varghese explains.

You can easily transfer the virus, bacteria, or fungi that caused your sinusitis to another person when you come into such close contact with them. Although that person may not develop a sinus infection, they can certainly become ill.

How To Stop The Spread

Sinus Contamination Signs Rash

You can prevent spreading sinus infections the same way you would prevent passing along a cold or the flu.

Good hand hygiene is sufficient to dramatically decrease the spread, says Dr. Stern. One should wash their hands after touching or blowing their nose and prior to contacting objects or others to decrease the likelihood of transmission.

Dr. Stern also recommends nasal irrigation with a saline solution. That, he says, is the nasal equivalent of hand-washing.

It also keeps your nasal passages moist, which will help prevent sinusitis. Other ways to do this include using nasal spray throughout the day, using a humidifier at home , drinking plenty of water, inhaling steam , and sleeping with your head elevated to prevent mucus from collecting in your sinuses.

Also make sure youre up to date on your vaccinations, especially the annual flu shot. The influenza virus can also lead to sinus infections.

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Is A Sinus Infection Contagious

Throughout the year, people across the United States are fighting off sinus infections. During allergy season especially, it seems as if they are contagious. However, the actual risks associated with spreading sinus infections are a little more complex than the typical cold or other illness. Hereâs what you need to know.

What Can You Do To Ease Sinus Infection Symptoms

Sinus infections can make you feel really miserable. In addition to feeling like your head is trapped in a vice, you could develop a fever, sore throat and even tooth pain. Thankfully, there are several things you can do at home to ease symptoms.

  • Quiet pain Take an over-the-counter medication such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen for discomfort and pain.
  • Try a nasal spray Use an over-the-counter nasal spray such as fluticasone to reduce swelling and open nasal and sinus passages.
  • Opt for an oral med Take guaifenesin to help thin and drain mucus.
  • Get some rest Make sure youre getting enough sleep and take it easy during the day.
  • Hydrate Drink at least 64 oz. of water and/or other clear non-caffeinated and non-alcoholic liquids throughout the day.
  • Grab a warm compress Ease pain and swelling by laying a warm washcloth over your sinuses.
  • Rinse your nasal passages Use a neti pot to flush your sinuses with a saline solution.

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When To See A Doctor For A Sinus Infection

I recommend seeing a doctor if your symptoms dont improve within 10 days, says Dr. Varghese.

While you can certainly treat a sinus infection at home, sinusitis that lasts longer than a couple of weeks may be the result of an underlying condition that may need medical treatment.

Contact your doctor right away if you think you have a sinus infection and develop any of the following symptoms:

  • A fever higher than 102°F
  • Sinus symptoms that last longer than 12 weeks
  • Forehead swelling
  • Redness or swelling around your eyes
  • Intense headaches or facial discomfort that doesnt go away

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