Sinus Infection Symptoms, Causes, & Treatment

Understanding Sinus Infections and How They Spread

Sinus infections, also referred to as sinusitis, affect over 30 million people in the United States every year. This common condition causes inflammation and swelling of the sinuses, leading to buildup of mucus and pus, facial pain, headaches, and more unpleasant symptoms.

With sinus infections being so widespread, many people wonder - can you catch a sinus infection from someone else? Let's take a closer look at what sinus infections are, what causes them, whether they are contagious, and how to prevent spreading them to others.

What Are Sinus Infections?

Your sinuses are hollow cavities in your face that connect to your nasal passages. Their main functions include lightening the weight of your skull, humidifying air, and allowing your voice to resonate.

The four pairs of sinus cavities are:

• Maxillary sinuses - behind your cheekbones
• Frontal sinuses - behind your forehead
• Ethmoid sinuses - between your eyes
• Sphenoid sinuses - behind your nose

Normally, mucus drains well from your sinuses and keeps them clean. A sinus infection occurs when there is swelling, fluid buildup, and inflammation in your sinuses that may spread to your nasal passages.

Causes of Sinusitis

There are a few ways sinus infections usually start:

• Viral infections - Colds and viruses often trigger sinus inflammation.
• Allergies - Allergies and exposure to irritants may cause fluid buildup.
• Bacterial infections - In some cases, bacteria grow and contribute to infections.
• Fungal infections - Fungi can also cause sinus infections.
• Other factors - Things like smoking, pollution, dental issues, and structural blockages can also be triggers.

Are Sinus Infections Contagious?

The short answer is: sometimes. Let's cover the different scenarios:

Viral Sinus Infections

If your sinus infection started from catching a cold, the flu, or another respiratory virus, then it is somewhat contagious in the early stages. The first 5-7 days of viral sinusitis are when you may be able to transmit the infection by:

• Coughing or sneezing droplets onto surfaces
• Sharing personal items like phones, glasses, silverware
• Kissing someone on the mouth

However, viral sinus infections usually resolve in 10-14 days as your immune system fights it off. At that point, even if symptoms like mucus and coughing still linger, the risk of contagiousness becomes very low.

Bacterial Sinus Infections

Bacterial infections can follow an initial viral infection. In these secondary cases, sinusitis-causing bacteria like Streptococcus pneumoniae and Haemophilus influenzae may be transmittable through mucus droplets or saliva in the early stages.

However, bacterial sinus infections themselves are not considered contagious once they have set in past the first few days. Antibiotics are often prescribed to clear bacterial sinus infections.

Fungal Sinus Infections

Fungal sinus infections are generally not contagious. They occur when fungus present in the sinuses grows out of control, often due to a weakened immune system. Treatment involves antifungal nasal sprays or oral medications.

Preventing Transmission of Sinus Infections

If you or someone you love has a sinus infection, follow good hygiene practices to avoid spreading illness. This includes:

• Washing hands frequently
• Coughing into elbows rather than hands
• Avoiding close contact like kissing
• Not sharing food, drinks, utensils
• Cleaning high-touch surfaces
• Avoiding exposure to irritants and allergens

In some cases when severe symptoms persist, doctors may recommend wearing a mask for the first 5-7 days until the infection is no longer contagious.

Generally, once sinus medication and antibiotics have been used for 1-2 days, the risk of contagiousness becomes quite low.

Diagnosing Sinus Infections

To confirm sinusitis, doctors typically evaluate symptoms and perform examinations like:

• Medical history questions
• Physical exam of nose/throat
• Sinus transillumination - shining light on face
• Nasal endoscopy - inserting scoped camera in nose
• Imaging tests - CT scans or MRIs
• Allergy testing
• Culture tests for viruses, bacteria

Based on exam results, they can prescribe appropriate sinus infection treatment and medications.

Treating Sinus Infections

To treat sinusitis, doctors often recommend:

• Nasal sprays - Corticosteroid or saline sprays reduce inflammation.
• Oral steroids - Prednisone temporarily eases swelling.
• Pain relievers - Acetaminophen/ibuprofen help headache/facial pain.
• Decongestants - Pseudoephedrine tablets opens nasal passages.
• Antihistamines - If allergies contribute, antihistamines like loratadine block receptors.
• Antibiotics - Amoxicillin fights bacterial sinus infections.
• Surgery - Endoscopic surgery drains stubborn infections.

Additionally, drinking fluids, using humidifiers, applying warm compresses, and getting rest support healing.

Preventing Future Sinus Infections

Once you recover, you can take these proactive steps to avoid recurring sinusitis:

• Taking daily nasal rinses with saltwater
• Using air filters and purifiers
• Taking allergy medications as needed
• Quitting smoking
• Avoiding pollution when possible

Since colds and other viruses often precede sinus infections, preventing viral illnesses can also keep sinus problems at bay. Protect yourself with flu shots, proper handwashing, and avoiding contact with sick people.

When to See a Doctor

Make an appointment with your doctor if sinus infection symptoms like facial pressure, pus drainage, or headaches persist beyond 10-14 days. Seek urgent care for high fever, severe headaches, swelling around eyes, or other alarming symptoms.

Chronic sinusitis lasting 3 months or longer also warrants medical advice to prevent permanent damage.

The Bottom Line

Sinus infections can occasionally spread in the early stages when caused by respiratory viruses or bacteria. However, following good hygiene practices, properly treating the infection, and staying home when sick significantly limit contagiousness.

Pay attention to lingering or worsening symptoms and see a professional if your infection persists beyond 2 weeks. With a combination of medical care and self-care, most cases of acute sinusitis fully resolve without transmission to others.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.