Can you spread a sinus infection

They should also address a persistent fever or a cough if they do not get better over time. A doctor will perform an assessment of a person with these symptoms. Part of the assessment will be determining any history of sinus infections in the individual, as well as doing a physical examination.

A doctor may also ask about pain. In particular, a doctor is often interested in pain in the ears, teeth, and areas surrounding the nasal passages. If a person has had a sinus infection for more than a week and the doctor suspects a bacterial sinus infection, they may prescribe antibiotics.

Not everyone will need antibiotics as their infections may be caused from virus, allergies, or irregularities in their nasal cavities. Hay fever or allergic rhinitis is an allergy that causes sneezing, watery eyes, and itching, often in response to pollen. Find tips here for…. The common cold is the most common infection that occurs in humans. It is not usually a serious illness, but complications can sometimes arise. The sinuses behind the nose can become inflamed for a variety of reasons.

Nonallergic rhinitis can result from an infection or drug use. It causes the inside of the nose to become inflamed, leading to cold-like symptoms. A look at chronic sinusitis, long-term inflammation in the sinuses. Included is detail on home remedies and possible complications of the condition.

Are sinus infections contagious? Medically reviewed by Elaine K. Luo, M. What is a sinus infection? Symptoms Treatments Home remedies When to see a doctor Sinus infections, also known as sinusitis, can be easily mistaken for the very contagious common cold.

Wash your hands, sneeze and cough into the nook of your elbow and use disinfectant wipes to clean everyday touched items like light switches and doorknobs. And try to keep your distance from your healthy family members during the short time when you may be contagious.

Make sure you get recommended vaccines such as the flu vaccine. And avoid close contract with others who have colds or other upper respiratory infections, Melinda said. If a virus is to blame for your sinus infection, then it is contagious and can potentially be transmitted to others.

Fungal and bacterial sinus infections, on the other hand, are not contagious, but these types of infections are uncommon. On the topic of staying home, rest plays a key role in recovering from a viral sinus infection.

Viruses must run their course, so getting lots of rest may help shorten the duration and severity of your illness. Try using a saline nasal spray to rinse your sinuses and an over-the-counter decongestant to help you breathe more easily. On average, the symptoms of a viral sinus infection last for about seven to 10 days. While many sinus infections can be addressed with self-care measures, you should promptly seek medical care if:.

These scenarios may signal that your sinus infection is chronic or caused by something other than a virus. If this is the case, you may be given antibiotics or another form of treatment, such as a corticosteroid or antihistamine spray. Less commonly, sinus infections can cause serious complications. Call or visit an emergency room immediately if you or someone around you has:.