Sinusitis Treatment Service

Service reviewed by Aans Memon, GPhC-registered pharmacist (GPhC - 2085817)
Sinusitis - 1
Sinusitis - 2
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1

Find a Pharmacy

Search by postcode, pick your preferred location

2

Consultation

Speak with a qualified pharmacist

3

Treatment

Same-day when clinically appropriate

NHS assurance pending: NHS Pharmacy First service delivery is blocked pending assurance evidence. This page must not be used to claim NHS-assured IT status, NHSBSA/MYS submission, live GP Connect Update Record integration, or completed automated GP record updates. NHS Pharmacy First funding and prescription-charge wording is unavailable until assurance evidence is verified.

Urgent or emergency symptoms

If symptoms are severe, rapidly worsening, or you need emergency help, call 999. If you are unsure what to do next, use NHS 111 for urgent medical advice.

Understanding Sinusitis

Acute Sinusitis

Most Common

Usually caused by viral infection. Often resolves within 2-3 weeks with self-care measures.

Bacterial Sinusitis

May Need Antibiotics

Symptoms lasting 10+ days without improvement. Pharmacist can prescribe antibiotics if appropriate.

Severe Symptoms

See GP or A&E

High fever, severe headache, vision problems, or swelling around eyes. Requires urgent medical attention.

When Antibiotics Are Prescribed

Antibiotics are only prescribed when symptoms have persisted for 10 days or more without improvement, suggesting a bacterial infection. Your pharmacist may also prescribe a steroid nasal spray to reduce inflammation. Most sinusitis cases are viral and will improve with self-care measures like pain relief, decongestants, and steam inhalation.

Common Sinusitis Symptoms

Sinusitis causes inflammation of the sinuses, leading to the following symptoms.

01

Facial Pain

Pain around eyes, nose, and forehead

02

Blocked Nose

Congestion and difficulty breathing

03

Nasal Discharge

Green or yellow mucus

04

Reduced Smell

Decreased sense of smell

05

Headache

Pressure headache

06

High Temperature

Fever in some cases

07

Toothache

Upper teeth pain

08

Bad Breath

Unpleasant taste or smell

Managing & Preventing Sinusitis

01

Steam Inhalation

  • Breathe in steam from a bowl of hot water
  • Use a warm, damp towel over face
  • Take hot showers to relieve congestion
  • Avoid steam if asthmatic
02

Pain Relief

  • Take paracetamol or ibuprofen
  • Follow dosage instructions carefully
  • Avoid ibuprofen if asthmatic
  • Do not exceed recommended dose
03

Stay Hydrated

  • Drink plenty of fluids
  • Avoid alcohol and caffeine
  • Warm drinks may help relieve symptoms
  • Rest and allow time to recover
04

Nasal Care

  • Use saline nasal spray or rinse
  • Decongestant sprays for short-term use
  • Do not use decongestants for more than 7 days
  • Keep nasal passages moist
05

Prevention

  • Avoid cigarette smoke
  • Manage allergies effectively
  • Wash hands regularly
  • Avoid close contact with people who have colds

Who Can Use This Service?

Eligible

  • Adults and children aged 12 and over
  • Symptoms present for 10+ days
  • Registered with a GP in England
  • No signs of serious complications

Not Eligible - See Your GP

  • Children under 12 years old
  • Pregnant or breastfeeding — limited antibiotic options, pharmacist will advise
  • Recent antibiotic use for sinusitis
  • Severe symptoms or complications
  • Weakened immune system

If you have severe symptoms, symptoms lasting more than 3 weeks, frequent sinusitis episodes, a weakened immune system, or signs of complications like vision problems or severe headache, please see your GP.

What to Expect During Your Consultation

1

Symptom Assessment

The pharmacist will ask about your symptoms, how long you have had them, and any treatments you have tried.

2

Medical History Review

They will check your medical history and current medications to ensure safe treatment.

3

Treatment Decision

Based on the assessment, they may prescribe antibiotics or recommend self-care measures.

4

Follow-up Advice

You will receive guidance on when to seek further help if symptoms do not improve.

Key Benefits

Same-day appointments available
Prescription antibiotics if needed
No GP appointment needed
Steroid nasal spray when appropriate

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about weight management treatment

General Information

Sinusitis is inflammation of the sinuses, usually caused by infection. It causes facial pain, blocked nose, and headaches. Most cases resolve on their own, but antibiotics may be prescribed for bacterial infections lasting more than 10 days.
This service is available for adults and children aged 12 and over who have had sinusitis symptoms for 10 days or more. You must be registered with a GP in England. The pharmacist will assess your symptoms to determine if antibiotic treatment is appropriate.

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Get Relief from Sinusitis Symptoms Today

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Clinical content is not an NHS-assured service route
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No live GP Connect Update Record integration
Use only with an approved pilot instruction or manual support route

NHS Pharmacy First funding and prescription-charge wording is unavailable until assurance evidence is verified.