If you have a blocked or runny nose, you may feel that you are struggling with a cold, especially if it’s winter and flu season. Sinus infections, which are also called sinusitis, can leave you feeling sick with symptoms like facial pain, nasal congestion, and headaches. However, beyond the discomfort, you may be wondering: Is a sinus infection contagious?
The sinuses are hollow cavities which reside behind the facial bones around the nose and eyes. Mucus produced by the sinuses can help moisten the nasal passages and trap foreign particles like bacteria and dust. When the tissues lining the sinuses become infected or inflamed, a condition called sinusitis occurs. When this occurs, the mucus fluid builds up and thickens, increasing discomfort and pressure. As the sinuses become blocked, bacteria or other germs can become trapped, multiply, and infect the sinus lining. Most cases of sinusitis are acute, which means they may last less than three weeks. However, in some cases, the condition is chronic and may last longer, or may occur again multiple times per year.
Here are the most common symptoms of sinus infection:
Signs of a viral sinus infection generally resemble a common cold. Other symptoms of sinus infection include facial pressure, pain in multiple areas of the face or upper jaw area, fatigue, yellowish or greenish discharge from the nose, and even a poor sense of smell. The signs of a bacterial sinus infection can be quite similar. However, there are some differences. Bacterial infections might cause severe signs such as facial pain, fever, or pressure in multiple areas of the face. If you notice any of the above-mentioned symptoms, you can get a consultation with Glenroy GP to know the exact cause and get medication to get rid of it.
The answer to this question is tricky. It can be both yes and no. A sinus infection itself is not contagious, but the potential causes can be. Most sinus infections can be caused by bacteria or viruses, which can spread from one person to another. However, inflammation resulting in sinus infections can also be caused by non-infectious causes. These include:
Tooth pain can be triggered by sinus infections because the roots of the upper molars are close to the maxillary sinuses, which are located behind the cheekbone. When the sinuses become infected, pressure builds up. It can affect the nerves of the teeth and cause pain.
You may get the flu very fast and experience symptoms like severe body aches, high fever, chills, and fatigue, while a sinus infection develops gradually and you may experience symptoms like facial pain, thick discolored mucus, and nasal congestion.
Yes, a sauna can temporarily relieve the symptoms of sinus infections, but it cannot cure the sinus infection completely. You need to consult a doctor to know whether you should try a sauna or rely on medications.
Yes, jaw pain can be triggered by a sinus infection, especially in the upper jaw and teeth. This is because the infected maxillary sinuses reside right above the upper teeth, and the pressure can radiate down, causing soreness in the jaw, facial muscles, and teeth. This pain usually feels achy, dull, or tight, can worsen when leaning forward, and is accompanied by sinus symptoms like facial pressure, congestion, and nasal discharge.
Conclusion
A sinus infection is not typically dangerous, but it can affect your daily life for days or weeks. When you struggle with chronic or occasional sinus infections, our doctors at Magnus Medical Centre Glenroy can help you manage and treat the condition.
