Are Bacterial Sinus Infections Contagious?

As most people know, bacterial and viral infections are contagious, and so you might wonder, are bacterial sinus infections contagious? The answer to this question is NO; bacterial type sinus infections are not contagious. Sinus related infections occur when the sinuses are inflamed and do not heal quickly. On the contrary, these bacteria multiply uncontrollably resulting in a bacterial sinus related infection. Therefore, the transmission of the disease from one person to another is impossible. What you should know is that, a common cold which usually succeeds a sinus infection is highly contagious.

If you think you are suffering from a bacterial sinus related infection, and then it is natural for you to ask, are bacterial sinus infections contagious? First and foremost, you must be able to determine if it really is a bacterial type infection since it can also be confused with other viral infections as the symptoms are sometimes very similar to each other.

* Fever
* Severe headache
* Sore throat
* Pain in the teeth
* Bad breath
* Nasal congestion and discharge
* Cough
* Facial pain
* Sneezing
* Tenderness in the cheekbones

Upon knowing the symptoms, you still might ask, are bacterial sinus infections contagious? The answer is still NO. What you need to take note of is how persistent your symptoms are, particularly your cold, cough and runny nose. If you notice the above symptoms, then it is time for you to consult a doctor or an ENT. Your doctor will conduct physical examinations and tests such as ultrasound and CT scan to diagnose bacterial based infection.

A course of antibiotics can also cure sinus based infections. Decongestants, on the other hand, can help you clear your nasal congestion, whereas paracetamol can provide you relief from the pain and headache. Are bacterial sinus infections contagious? Well, if you are still thinking that it is contagious, you may want to consider other treatment methods as well such as a sinus surgery to remove the nasal polyps and improve the flow of air within your nasal cavities. Hot compress to the affected region is an effective home remedy as well. Steam and nasal irrigation can be very helpful in clearing nasal congestion too.

Are bacterial sinus infections contagious? No it is not. However, to make you stop from thinking if it is contagious, prevention is the best solution. Remember to maintain cleanliness and proper hygiene to avoid acquiring any kind of infections. Do not forget to wash your hands before meals and take a bath regularly. Aside from that, if you are aware that you have a weak immune system, then you should stay away from those suffering from viral infections like cold. If in case you developed any symptoms of allergies, make sure to get an immediate treatment. Last but not the least; try to maintain a healthy and balanced lifestyle as much as possible. Knowing all these, you will be able to answer your own question - are bacterial sinus infections contagious?