From the Guidelines
Sinus infections are generally not contagious, as they are typically caused by inflammation of the sinus cavities or opportunistic infections by bacteria already present in the nose and throat. Most sinus infections develop as complications of the common cold, allergies, or structural problems in the nasal passages 1. When bacteria are involved, they are usually bacteria that already exist in the nose and throat, and viral sinus infections may develop from contagious viruses like the common cold, but the sinus infection itself is a secondary condition.
Key Points to Consider
- The majority of sinus infections are caused by viral upper respiratory tract infections (URIs), with fewer than 2% of viral URIs complicated by acute bacterial rhinosinusitis (ABRS) 1.
- The diagnosis of ABRS is typically based on clinical signs and symptoms, such as symptoms persisting for more than 10 days without clinical improvement, severe symptoms, or worsening symptoms after an initial period of improvement 1.
- Treatment for sinus infections usually includes saline nasal irrigation, over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen, and decongestants, with antibiotics like amoxicillin prescribed for bacterial sinus infections that don't improve after 7-10 days 1.
- Practicing good hygiene, such as handwashing, is always recommended if you have any respiratory symptoms, but isolation from others is not necessary for sinus infections.
Management Strategies
- For acute bacterial sinusitis, empirical antibiotics like amoxicillin-clavulanate may be prescribed, with doxycycline or a respiratory fluoroquinolone as alternative options 1.
- Intranasal corticosteroids and decongestants may also be used to decrease inflammation and relieve symptoms, although their efficacy is not well established 1.
- In cases of chronic sinusitis, treatment may involve a combination of antibiotics, oral decongestants, and nasal decongestants, with consideration of endoscopic sinus surgery for patients with anatomic obstruction or refractory infection 1.
From the Research
Sinus Infections Contagiousness
- Sinus infections, also known as rhinosinusitis, are typically caused by viral or bacterial infections, and their contagiousness depends on the underlying cause 2, 3.
- Viral sinus infections are often contagious, as they can be spread through respiratory droplets, such as those produced by coughing or sneezing 3.
- Bacterial sinus infections, on the other hand, are generally not contagious, as they are not typically spread from person to person 2.
- However, it's worth noting that the bacteria that cause sinus infections can be spread through close contact with an infected person, such as through sharing utensils or drinking glasses 3.
Transmission and Prevention
- To prevent the spread of sinus infections, it's recommended to practice good hygiene, such as washing your hands frequently and avoiding close contact with people who are sick 3.
- Additionally, using saline nasal washes and steam inhalation may help to reduce the severity of symptoms and prevent the spread of infection 3.
- Antibiotics may be prescribed for bacterial sinus infections, but they are not effective against viral infections, and their use should be judiciously considered to avoid contributing to antibiotic resistance 2, 3.
Complications and Treatment
- Complications of sinus infections, such as orbital cellulitis, meningitis, and abscess, are rare but can be serious, and may require prompt medical attention 2.
- Treatment for sinus infections typically involves a combination of supportive care, such as pain relief and decongestants, and antibiotics if a bacterial infection is suspected 2, 3.
- In some cases, referral to an otolaryngologist or further testing, such as computed tomography, may be necessary to rule out complications or underlying conditions 2.