Understanding Sinus Infections: Are They Contagious and How to Stay Healthy

Sinus infections also known as sinusitis is a condition that occurs due to many factors that cause inflammation of the sinus cavities.

It is most often caused by a virus, often after a cold.

Cold viruses spread to the upper respiratory tract, and may cause inflammation of the nasal passages and sinuses which gets blocked and filled with mucus.

This environment can also favor the growth of bacteria; thus, it is not uncommon for a sinus infection to be a complication of a viral infection, hence, it is important to treat a cold to clear the root cause.

Other causes of sinus infections include allergies. Pollen, dust, mold or animal dander can cause chronic inflammation of the nasal membranes that is, allergies.

When the nasal passages are swollen due to allergies, they may also secrete more mucus and get blocked which is a perfect environment for the growth of bacteria or fungi.

People who suffer from certain conditions including allergic rhinitis or asthma are most at risk and these allergies must be well controlled to prevent sinus infections.

One of the most commonly asked questions with regards to sinus infection is whether or not it is contagious.

The answer will depend on the cause of the sinus infection, whether it is viral or bacterial for instance.

This type of sinus infection is most often caused by viruses and therefore, is called viral sinusitis.

These are viruses and when a person with a viral infection sneezes or coughs, they release droplets that contain the virus into the environment and other people can contract it when they inhale the droplets.

This therefore means that although the sinus infection is not contageous the virus that caused it is easily catchable.

On the other hand, bacterial sinus infections are not contagious because the pathogens that cause sinusitis are usually already in the body or environment.

These infections more often develop as a complication of a viral infection or any other condition including allergies or structural abnormalities of the sinus cavities.

Bacteria that cause sinusitis are usually already present in the body or environment and therefore, the infection does not spread in the same way that a viral infection does.

Thus, it is not necessary for persons who have close contact with an individual who has bacterial sinus infection to worry about contracting the infection.

Fungal sinus infections are also not contagious and are most common in patients with impaired immunity or certain diseases.

Knowing whether sinus infections are contagious or not is important especially during the cold and flu season.

There are simple measures that can be taken to prevent catching the viruses that cause sinusitis including washing of hands and keeping away from people who are sick.

Sinus infection can be prevented with the help of certain changes in the lifestyle and by maintaining proper hygiene to avoid viral infections and inflammation.

One of the most important measures is to take care of nasal cavity, which means that one should use saline nasal spray or rinse to keep nasal passages moist and free from allergens and irritants.

It is also useful to cleanse the sinus regularly to avoid formation of mucus and subsequent infection especially in people with allergies.

Another important strategy is the management of allergies and other respiratory conditions.

In cases where one knows that he/she has allergies, identifying the allergens and taking the necessary precautions such as taking antihistamines, using nasal corticosteroids among others, can help in preventing sinus infections.

Also, there are measures that can be taken to prevent exposure to pollutants, cigarette smoke and strong odours to ensure proper sinus function.

Patients should also go for flu vaccines since influenza can cause sinus infections as a complication.

It is also important to stay hydrated to prevent development of sinus infection.

Drinking a lot of water and other fluids such as herbal teas help in reducing the thickness of mucus hence allowing the sinuses to drain easily.

A balanced diet that is vitamin and nutrient packed can also help build up the immune system and make it stronger against diseases.

Other factors that also help in boosting the immune system include exercising regularly and taking enough sleep.

Thus, following the mentioned above preventive measures, the frequency of sinus infection can be minimized.

Sinus infections can be of different types and different severity and therefore the treatment will also depend on the type and severity of the infection.

For instance, viral sinusitis can be treated with OTC drugs that help in relieving the symptoms without targeting the virus.

Decongestants, antihistamines and pain relievers can be purchased over the counter to help cure the discomfort and relieve the symptoms.

Steam inhalation and applying warm compresses on the face also helps in reducing facial pain and in draining mucus.

In case of suspicion of a bacterial infection especially if the symptoms persist beyond ten days or if they return after having initially improved, the patient will be prescribed antibiotics.

It is equally important to know when to visit a doctor in case of sinus infection so as to prevent complications.

If symptoms persist for more than ten days without being relieved then it may indicate that there is a bacterial infection which will need antibiotic treatment.

Also, if you experience severe facial pain or swelling or if you have a high fever, it is best to seek the advice of a healthcare professional.

Such symptoms could suggest complications that may need intervention if such as changes in vision or neurological symptoms.

People with chronic sinusitis or those who keep on having sinus infections should also seek the advice of a doctor.

Some of the symptoms may be uncomfortable and may interfere with the quality of life and may need special approaches to management.

Preventing sinus infection and keeping the overall health in good condition requires being proactive.

There is one important tip that can be followed and that is to maintain personal hygiene.

Washing our hands regularly with soap and water helps in preventing colds and viruses that cause sinusitis.

It is also important to avoid contact with people who are ill and not to touch any part of the body especially the face to avoid catching bacteria.

This is because proper cleaning of surfaces that are in common areas may also help in avoiding coming into close contact with pathogens.

Another important factor to consider is the management of allergies.

To this end, if one has allergies, he or she should make sure that he or she takes precautions to avoid coming into contact with the allergens and thus lower his or her chances of coming down with sinusitis.

This may include the use of air filters and cleaning the surroundings more often and if one is on allergies medication, then he or she should take it as prescribed.

Monitoring pollen count and keeping off from exercising outdoors during allergic season can also go a long way in preventing flare ups which may lead to sinus infections.

Finally, encouraging people to make changes that will improve their health will help them to get better.

It is important to take regular exercises, consume fruits and vegetables, and take enough sleep in order to build up the immune system.

Drinking plenty of water hence keeps the the body mucus is membranes able healthy to fight off infections easily.

Thus, following the mentioned tips and focusing on one’s well-being, it is possible to decrease the chances of developing sinus infection.