Does having chronic sinusitis put you at increased risk for Covid-19?
The short answer to this question is no. The novel corona-virus results in increased risk for developing a more serious form of the infection in patients with certain health conditions. These include lung problems, hypertension or high blood pressure, obesity, compromised immunity, elderly patients, and those with serious chronic diseases.
Although having sinusitis in itself does not predispose a person to developing Covid-19 or a serious form of Covid-19 infection, certain associated factors may contribute to developing significant illness. For example, co-existing asthma or bronchitis have been found to result in a more serious Covid-19 infection. Treatment with oral steroids may also result in a temporarily decreased immune system. Use of antibiotics, nasal sprays, and rinses, as well as inhaled medications for asthma or bronchitis have not been shown to affect Covid-19 outcomes.
