No, the sinusitis it is not contagious and is not transmitted from person to person. Although colds and flu are contagious and are among the causes of sinusitis, sinusitis itself is not transmissible.
Sinusitis is a inflammation of the mucosa covering the paranasal sinuses (bony cavities located around the nose and behind the apple of the face, forehead and eyes).
Inside the paranasal sinus is produced mucus, which is drained to the nose through small tunnels. When these tunnels are obstructed by secretion, swelling of the mucosa or any other cause, the sinuses lose their communication with the nose, being sealed and without ventilation.
Thus, mucus produced by the mucosa accumulates and facilitates infection by microorganisms, giving rise to sinusitis.
The most common causes of sinusitis are the disorders that cause swelling of the mucosa, such as allergic rhinitis and respiratory infections caused by viruses, since the swelling prevents the mucus from draining normally to the nose.
Sinusitis can be caused by colds and flu, respiratory allergy, deviated nasal septum, rhinitis, asthma, bronchitis, tonsillitis and pharyngitis.
Any situation that may obstruct communication between the facial sinuses and the nose can cause sinusitis. However, once with sinusitis, the individual can not transmit it.
The diagnosis and treatment of sinusitis is the responsibility of the otorhinolaryngologist.
Learn more at:
What is sinusitis and what causes it?
Is sinusitis healing?
