How long are you contagious when you have a sinus infection?

A sinus infection caused by a viral infection lasts about seven to 10 days, meaning you’ll be contagious with the virus for up to two weeks. If your symptoms last more than 10 days, or if they subside after a week then return again a few days later, you likely have a bacterial sinus infection that cannot be spread.

What’s the difference between a sinus infection and Covid?

“COVID-19 causes more of a dry cough, loss of taste and smell, and, typically, more respiratory symptoms,” Melinda said. “Sinusitis causes more discomfort in the face, congestion, nasal drip, and facial pressure.”

How does a person get a sinus infection?

Sinus infections happen when fluid builds up in the air-filled pockets in the face (sinuses), which allows germs to grow. Viruses cause most sinus infections, but bacteria can cause some sinus infections.

Should I go to work with a sinus infection?

Sinus infections can be viral or bacterial. “Either way, it’s best to stay home,” Wigmore says. Viral sinus infections are often contagious. If you have had symptoms longer than one week, or if you have severe facial pain, teeth/jaw pain, or fever, you may have a bacterial infection and should consult your doctor.

Can I catch a sinus infection from someone else?

If you are experiencing a viral sinus infection, you can’t spread the infection to others, but you can pass along the virus. Someone who catches the virus from you is then at a higher risk of also developing a sinus infection. You may be contagious for up to two weeks. Sinus infections can also be caused by bacteria.

Do you lose taste with sinus infection?

Similar to upper respiratory infections, both allergy related nasal congestion and sinus infections can trigger the loss of your sense of taste and smell due to increased inflammation and mucus in the nasal cavities.

Are you contagious with sinus infection?

Are sinus infections contagious? “Because many times sinus infections are caused by viruses, they can be contagious like other infections, such as colds,” Melinda said. “If you have a sinus infection, it’s important to use good hygiene skills.

What are the symptoms of a bad sinus infection?

Sinus Infection: Sinus infections and sinusitis is a condition in which the sinuses become inflamed and/or infected. Sinus infection symptoms and signs include bad breath, runny or stuffy nose, or nasal congestion, facial pain and swelling, tooth pain, ringing in the ears, sinus headache, fever, sore throat and cough.

What are the symptoms of a sinus abscess?

An abscess refers to a pocket of pus within a closed space. Sinus infection abscess symptoms include redness and swollen areas around the affected sinus cavity. Sinus abscess symptoms once experienced need to be taken seriously. Nasal drainage that is similar to pus may also occur.

Is it sinusitis or allergies?

Sinusitis usually develops because of allergies or a cold. Sometimes, but not often, it’s from bacteria that cause an infection. When you have allergies or a cold, your nose and sinuses get inflamed. That blocks mucus from draining, which can cause an infection — not to mention pain and pressure. If you have allergies,…

What is treatment for sinus allergy?

Taking a hot shower and inhaling some of the steam can provide some sinus relief. Decongestants and allergy medication can relieve sinus congestion. Oral antihistamines can help reduce allergy symptoms that may be causing sinus discomfort.