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Red stuffy nose, teary eyes, and a mean cough — that’s the big trifecta when it comes to identifying the flu.

However, these symptoms aren’t always caused by a passing flu. Instead, they could be an extension of sinusitis, a condition that can be triggered by simple seasonal changes. But does that mean a sinus infection is contagious?

Keep reading this blog to find out what causes sinusitis and how you can tame its symptoms.

What is Sinus Infection?

Sinusitis, or a sinus infection, is a condition where your sinus cavities get inflamed, with fluid gathering inside them. Plus, since sinus cavities are hollow and surround your nose, when they get inflamed, it can cause a lot of pain and discomfort.

It is also important to note that sinus cavities produce mucus, which helps to moisten the nasal passages and trap harmful particles.

Be it infection, allergies, or other triggers, once sinusitis develops, it can be identified by symptoms such as nasal congestion, headache, thick mucus, and an odd pressure on your face.

Causes of Sinus Infection

Sinus infections can be caused by various factors, some of which include:

  1. Viral Flu
    The common cold and influenza viruses are frequent culprits behind sinusitis. These viruses can cause inflammation and swelling of the sinus lining, leading to congestion and discomfort.
  2. Bacterial Infections
    In some cases, sinusitis can also develop as a secondary infection following a viral cold. Once the bacteria enters your sinuses, it can give way to bacterial sinusitis.
  3. Allergies
    Allergic reactions to pollen, dust, mold, or pet dander are some of the biggest triggers of sinusitis. These allergens can cause inflammation in the nasal passages, further leading to congestion and sinus pressure.

Is a Sinus Infection Contagious?

Yes and no. The contagiousness of sinusitis depends entirely on its underlying cause. For instance, sinus infections caused by viruses, such as those responsible for the common cold or flu, can be contagious.

This is because these viruses are typically spread through respiratory droplets. When an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks, their infected germs are spread around.

Thus, coming into close contact with someone who is infected only increases your risk of contracting the virus and developing sinusitis.

On the other hand, bacterial sinus infections are not contagious on their own, but they can turn contagious if they’re paired with a common cold or flu virus.

Additionally, bacteria responsible for sinusitis can be present in nasal discharge, which may potentially transmit the infection to others through close contact. However, the transmission of bacterial sinusitis is not as common compared to viral sinusitis.

Final Words

All in all, sinus infections can be caused by viruses, bacteria, allergies, or any other such trigger. But when it comes to deciding whether or not it is contagious, it can be concluded that viral sinusitis has the tendency to be more contagious than bacterial sinusitis.

Nevertheless, if you experience severe sinus symptoms, especially prolonged pain, make sure to consult a healthcare professional for an in-depth diagnosis and treatment plan. For more information, feel free to contact Sharaf Diwan, MD, at (832) 604-0005.