A viral sinus infection is contagious for about a few days to a week, sometimes up to two weeks, mirroring the duration of the underlying cold or flu, with peak contagiousness in the first few days when symptoms like coughing and sneezing are present. Bacterial sinus infections, which often follow viral ones, are generally not contagious, as the bacteria aren't spread like a virus, but it's wise to practice hygiene until symptoms resolve.
Sinus infections themselves are not contagious, but the underlying causes can be. Most sinus infections are triggered by viruses or bacteria, which can spread from person to person. However, inflammation leading to sinus infections can also be triggered by noninfectious causes.
Typically, these infections do not spread from person to person. So, unlike the common cold, a sinus infection isn't contagious. However, viruses or bacteria, like flu or a cold, that cause sinus infections are contagious.
Remember:
How else can I get rid of a sinus infection naturally?
Warning signs you should never ignore
If you have a high temperature or you do not feel well enough to do your normal activities, try to stay at home and avoid contact with other people until you feel better.
Acute sinusitis symptoms (nasal congestion, drainage, facial pain/pressure and decreased sense of smell) last less than four weeks. It's usually caused by viruses like the common cold. Subacute sinusitis symptoms last four to 12 weeks. Chronic sinusitis symptoms last at least 12 weeks.
Sinusitis red flags signal a severe infection needing urgent care, including severe eye symptoms (swelling, redness, vision changes like double vision), high fever, stiff neck, confusion, severe facial swelling/numbness, or neurological changes (difficulty walking/talking), indicating potential spread to the eyes or brain. For less severe cases, seek care if symptoms last over 10 days, worsen after improving ("double sickening"), or include severe facial pain/toothache, suggesting bacterial sinusitis.
It is often caused by bacterial (germ) infection. Sometimes, viruses and fungi (molds) cause it. People with weak immune systems are more likely to develop bacterial or fungal sinus infection. Some people with allergies can have “allergic fungal sinus infection.” Acute sinus infection lasts three to eight weeks.
Other symptoms may creep in and peak at day five with everything clearing up and disappearing within 7-10 days. A sinus infection introduces additional symptoms like facial pressure and greenish mucus just keeps going lasting much longer.
Both chronic and acute sinusitis can sap your energy. If you're combating a sinus infection following a cold or flu, rest can help you recuperate.
DO avoid allergy triggers.
Some of the most common symptoms of sinusitis are pain, tenderness, nasal congestion, and headache. The diagnosis is based on symptoms, but sometimes a computed tomography scan or other imaging tests are needed. Antibiotics can eliminate an underlying bacterial infection.
Sinus infections and COVID-19 can both cause congestion and sore throats, but COVID-19 often presents with additional symptoms like body aches and loss of smell. Understanding the key differences between COVID and a sinus infection can help with getting an accurate diagnosis and the right treatment.
Germs that enter the bloodstream and travel to the brain and spinal cord cause bacterial meningitis. But bacterial meningitis also can happen when bacteria directly enter the meninges. This may be caused by an ear or sinus infection or a skull fracture.
Physical Symptoms
The first and most important beverage to clear congestion is water. Drinking plenty of water can help thin mucus and ease congestion. Aim for at least eight cups of water a day. If you struggle to drink enough water, try swapping a couple of cups for coconut water or other natural fruit juices.
Foods to Avoid in Sinusitis
How to Treat a Sinus Infection
Exercise also triggers the release of endorphins, which are receptors in the brain that can reduce your perception of pain and help to trigger a happy and positive feeling. If you want to exercise when you have a sinus infection, good choices are a bike ride or brisk walk.
Inflammation is a key player in sinus infections. As your body battles the inflammation, chemicals called cytokines are released. These cytokines can cause fatigue and malaise as part of the body's natural response to infection.
Many people associate sinus and nasal symptoms with a sinus infection, also called sinusitis, or with an upper respiratory infection, such as a cold. Someone may say that they're experiencing a sinus headache. But sinus and nasal symptoms often can signal something else: a migraine headache.
“Normally, mucus is clear. When you have a cold or infection, it might turn green or yellow,” said Alyssa.