Sinusitis Treatment

Quick and effective relief for sinusitis without a GP appointment.

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Understanding Sinusitis

Sinusitis is an inflammation of the sinuses, which are air-filled spaces located within the bones around your nose. This condition often occurs when the sinuses become blocked and filled with fluid, allowing germs to grow and cause an infection. Sinusitis can be acute, lasting a short period, or chronic, persisting for more than 12 weeks despite treatment.

Acute sinusitis often follows a cold or an allergic reaction and can cause significant discomfort. Symptoms typically include a blocked or runny nose, facial pain or pressure, reduced sense of smell, and a high temperature. Chronic sinusitis, on the other hand, may have less severe symptoms but can be persistent and affect your quality of life.

Sinusitis can affect people of all ages, and its severity can vary. While mild cases often resolve on their own, more severe or persistent cases may require medical treatment. Consulting a pharmacist can provide quick access to effective treatments and advice, helping to alleviate symptoms and prevent complications.

Pharmacists can treat patients aged 12 years and over for sinusitis. Treatment may include decongestants, nasal sprays, and, if necessary, antibiotics. The aim is to alleviate symptoms such as nasal congestion, facial pain, and pressure, and to prevent complications like bacterial infections​ (NHS England)​​ (NHS England)​

3-Step to book your Sinusitis appointment

BOOK

1

Book an appointment online or in-store. Register using your NHS login credentials to get started.

CONFIRMATION

1

Receive email confirmations and reminders for your appointments. 

CONSULTATION

1

Consult with our trained pharmacist and receive appropriate medication and care advice.

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Frequently Asked Questions about Sinusitis

Your questions answered by our expert pharmacists.

Common symptoms of sinusitis include:

  • Nasal congestion or a blocked nose.
  • Thick, yellow or green nasal discharge.
  • Facial pain or pressure, particularly around the cheeks, eyes, and forehead.
  • Reduced sense of smell.
  • A high temperature or fever.
  • Headache.
  • Bad breath.
  • Fatigue.
  • Toothache or pain in the upper jaw.

Treatment for sinusitis depends on the severity and duration of symptoms. For mild cases, self-care measures such as rest, hydration, and nasal saline rinses can be effective. Over-the-counter decongestants and pain relievers like paracetamol or ibuprofen can help alleviate symptoms.

For more persistent or severe cases, a pharmacist may recommend the following treatments:

  • Decongestant nasal sprays or drops (use for a short duration to avoid rebound congestion).
  • Antihistamines if allergies are a contributing factor.
  • Nasal corticosteroids to reduce inflammation.
  • Antibiotics if a bacterial infection is suspected, although they are not always necessary.

You should see a pharmacist if:

  • Your symptoms persist for more than a week without improvement.
  • You experience severe symptoms such as intense facial pain, swelling around the eyes, or a high fever.
  • Over-the-counter medications do not provide relief.
  • You have recurrent episodes of sinusitis.
  • You have underlying conditions like asthma or immune system disorders that could complicate sinusitis.

Yes, there are several over-the-counter medications that can help manage the symptoms of sinusitis:

  • Decongestants: Such as pseudoephedrine tablets or phenylephrine nasal sprays, which reduce nasal congestion.
  • Pain Relievers: Like paracetamol or ibuprofen to relieve pain and reduce fever.
  • Nasal Saline Irrigation: To help clear nasal passages and reduce congestion.
  • Antihistamines: If your sinusitis is allergy-related, antihistamines like cetirizine or loratadine can be helpful.