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Sinusitis

Assessment and treatment for acute sinusitis in anyone aged 12 and over.

Price
Free
on the NHS

Sinusitis is inflammation of the sinuses — the air-filled spaces behind the cheeks, eyes and forehead. It usually follows a cold, and most cases clear on their own within two to three weeks. When it drags on or is particularly severe, our pharmacist can assess it and, where appropriate, supply treatment without you seeing a GP.

This is an NHS Pharmacy First service. The consultation is free, and there is no prescription charge unless you normally pay for prescriptions and one is issued.

Who we can treat

Adults and children aged 12 and over with symptoms of sinusitis.

The main symptoms are:

  • Pain, swelling or tenderness around the cheeks, eyes or forehead.
  • A blocked or runny nose, often with green or yellow mucus.
  • A reduced sense of smell.
  • A high temperature.

You may also have a headache, toothache, bad breath, a cough, or a feeling of pressure in the ears.

When we will send you elsewhere

  • Children under 12.
  • Symptoms that have lasted more than three months, or keep coming back.
  • Severe pain, swelling around the eye, or changes to your vision — these need a doctor urgently.
  • Anyone with a weakened immune system.

How the appointment works

We are an NHS distance selling pharmacy, so this consultation is by phone. Book a time and a pharmacist will call you, ask about your symptoms and how long you have had them, and decide with you what is appropriate.

Anything supplied is dispensed and delivered to your door free of charge.

Treatment

Most sinusitis is viral and does not need antibiotics. The pharmacist will usually recommend pain relief, a decongestant, and steam or saline to help clear the nose. Where symptoms have gone on for around ten days or more without improving, a steroid nasal spray or — less often — antibiotics may be appropriate. The pharmacist will explain which applies to you and why.

When to get help sooner

Contact your GP or NHS 111 if you have severe pain that is getting worse, swelling or redness around an eye, a very high temperature, or a stiff neck. In an emergency, call 999.