Are sinus infections contagious?

Sinus infections can show up through a few distinctive signs; these are severe headache, swelling of face accompanied by increased pressure on your sinus pockets. Sinus infections are also labelled as sinusitis; this condition occurs as these pockets witness a build-up of liquids. Once liquids start accumulating in you sinus pockets, risks of microbial growth tend to get high. But, are sinus infections contagious? It is helpful to have additional insights onto this condition.

Sinus infections may persist for long i.e., for more timespan than say, infections in the respiratory tract or airways. Most forms of sinus infections are caused by viruses; however, there are instances wherein bacteria and fungi have also caused sinusitis. There are many kinds of sinus infections. For instance, a type called chronic form of sinusitis is known to persist beyond 12 weeks’ time. These spells may also reappear once they are treated.

There is another type called the acute version of sinusitis; here, infections in your sinus pockets may persist for more than 4 – 5 weeks’ time. Acute forms of sinusitis are often triggered by bacteria. In some people, a recurrent form of sinus infections may occur a few times every year.

There are some nasal conditions which are similar to sinus infection; hence, you are advised to consult with a medical professional. A few conditions like allergies and infections in oral parts may cause sinusitis-like discomforts like pains, swelling, etc. These may often be wrongly assumed as sinus infections.

Are sinus infections contagious?

Sinus infections can turn contagious depending on what triggered it. Conditions with virus as an underlying cause can turn contagious. People who come in closer contact may report illness. In most cases, people report of flu-type of symptoms. These signs are unlikely to turn into sinus infections, at all times.

Infections caused by bacterial strands are unlikely to spread to others. How to know if bacteria is the cause? One of the ways to ascertain this is – your sinus condition may persist longer, say- for more than 10 days.

Are sinus infections contagious through kissing?

Yes, infections such as sinusitis can spread through acts of kissing. This means when a person who is already having a sinus infection kisses you, the risks of your getting it are quite high. Kissing can expose you to viruses that have caused sinusitis. You tend to get infected even when the person you are kissing coughs or sneezes while you are close quarters. Similar risks persist if you are touching the infected person’s face or if he / she is touching your facial organs.

You are advised not to kiss a person who is down with infections; also wash your arms and fingers with soap solution. It is a safer thing to use sanitisers prior to kissing and also after the act. Moreover, it becomes essential to cover sensitive parts like your nose as well as mouth when you cough or sneeze. Lastly, never share your utensils  or drinks with people who are down with sinus infections.

How long are sinus infections contagious?

Virus-triggered sinus infections may turn contagious prior to your getting sinusitis. Viruses tend to spread to other people only for some days. However, there are a few instances wherein people around you may continue getting infected for more than 8 – 9 days.

In this light, you also need to know not all forms of sinusitis are known to spread. Infections caused by allergens – such as dust or mites, non-infecting triggers like exposure to a few types of odors – are all unlikely to spread. There are also a few people who tend to get sinusitis as they have weakened immunity cells or a highly compromised system of immunity.

If you want to have more details on – are sinus infections contagious or how long are sinus infections contagious, it is a safe thing to speak with your caregiving team.

Disclaimer

Information provided here are only of supplementary nature. Information shared here does not substitute a qualified doctor’s advice. This website is not suggesting intake of this drug as safe or appropriate. Hence it is advised to talk to your doctor before consuming this med or any other drug.