A sinus infection, medically known as sinusitis, occurs when the tissues lining the sinus cavities become inflamed. These hollow spaces are located behind your cheekbones, forehead, and between your eyes. Whether a sinus infection can spread depends on its cause. Some sinus infections are contagious, while others are not.
Understanding Different Types
Sinus infections are caused by viruses or bacteria, which determines their contagiousness. Viral sinus infections are the most common type, often stemming from upper respiratory infections like the common cold or influenza. These viruses spread through respiratory droplets from coughing, sneezing, or talking. They can also transfer from contaminated surfaces to the eyes, nose, or mouth. It is the underlying virus that is transmissible, not the sinus inflammation itself.
Bacterial sinus infections develop differently and are not directly contagious. They often occur as a secondary complication after a viral illness, allergies, or other conditions that cause sinus blockage and fluid buildup. This stagnant environment allows bacteria, often present in nasal passages, to multiply and cause infection. The bacteria are usually opportunistic and do not spread from one person’s infected sinuses to another.
Preventing Transmission
To reduce the risk of spreading or acquiring viral sinus infections, practice frequent and thorough handwashing with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. This is especially important after coughing, sneezing, or touching shared surfaces. If soap and water are unavailable, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol. Cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue, or into the elbow if a tissue is not available, to contain respiratory droplets.
Avoid touching your face, especially your eyes, nose, and mouth, to minimize germ transfer. Maintain physical distance from sick individuals to reduce exposure to respiratory viruses. Regularly clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces like doorknobs, light switches, and countertops to eliminate viral particles. These practices help break the chain of viral transmission.
When to Seek Medical Attention
Many sinus infections, particularly viral ones, resolve on their own. However, medical attention is important if symptoms like nasal congestion, facial pain or pressure, and discolored nasal discharge persist for over 10 to 14 days without improvement. Worsening symptoms after initial improvement also warrant evaluation, as this could indicate a bacterial infection requiring antibiotics.
Seek prompt medical evaluation for more severe symptoms. These include a high fever, typically above 102°F (39°C), severe headache, or intense facial pain unresponsive to over-the-counter pain relievers. Sudden worsening of symptoms after stability also suggests a need for professional assessment. Serious signs like vision changes, double vision, swelling around the eyes, or confusion indicate complications requiring immediate medical care.