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A question our sinus specialists in Southfield and Allen Park, MI get when patients come in for sinus infections is whether or not they’re contagious. We get this question often for obvious reasons. The swelling and pressure from sinus infections can be uncomfortable, and nobody wants to inflict that on their friends and family. The short answer to if sinus infections are contagious is no, the infection itself cannot spread from one person to another, but sinus infections can be caused by another illness that might be contagious. To help our patients at our sinusitis treatment center better understand their sinus infection we would like to discuss some of the conditions that can bring on sinus infections and whether or not they’re infectious.

Viral Sinus Infections

Most commonly we find that respiratory viruses that cause the flu and colds may also cause you to get a sinus infection. If this is how your sinus infection began, then you may be contagious, but that doesn’t mean that if someone caught your virus, they would get a sinus infection. Most of the time these infections will lead to a cold or flu, but might not cause a sinus infection. A good way to prevent this is to wash your hands thoroughly regardless of if you’re sick and not touch anyone if you are sick. Most respiratory viruses spread from hand to hand contact or from coughing or sneezing without covering your mouth. You should also stay home from work or school if you have a cold or flu to prevent further spread of your illness. You should also consider getting a flu shot annually, especially if you are in contact with the elderly or young children.

Bacterial Sinus Infection

If your sinuses are blocked and filled with mucus, there is a chance for bacteria to grow and cause a sinus infection. Viral infections develop from the same process however the cause is different. For bacterial sinus infections, there is not a virus that causes your initial blockage. It could be something else like allergies, a deviated septum, or if you’re a smoker. If you have a stuffy nose or sinus infection for more than ten days, you probably have a sinus infection and should visit Detroit Sinus Center as soon as possible. From there we can better diagnose your sinusitis and give you the best treatment possible in Southfield and Allen Park, here in Michigan. One good thing about having a purely bacterial sinus infection they’re not contagious. That being said, it is often tough for people to diagnose the root of their sinus infection and you should still visit a doctor like the sinus specialists in Allen Park.

Visit Your Local Allen Park Sinus Specialists Today!

If you have been experiencing a sinus infection that has lasted over ten days, visit our Allen Park or Southfield, Michigan offices. Our sinus specialists can help you with your sinusitis with treatments like balloon surgery, sinus drops, or nasal steroids. Our team is here for you with whatever you need, so call us anytime to ask us a question or to make an appointment.