Sinusitis

Sinusitis is inflammation of the sinuses, usually caused by a viral infection such as a cold or flu. It can cause pressure, pain, and congestion in the face and head.

Acute sinusitis is common and often improves within a few weeks, but symptoms can be uncomfortable and disruptive.

What is Pharmacy First?

Pharmacy First is an NHS service that allows you to access treatment for common conditions directly from a community pharmacy without needing a GP appointment.

At our pharmacy, our trained pharmacists can assess your symptoms in a private consultation and provide treatment where appropriate, or refer you for further care if needed.

This service helps you get faster access to treatment and reduces waiting times for GP appointments.

Who can use this service?

• Patients aged 12 years and over
• People with symptoms of acute sinusitis
• Patients who do not require urgent hospital treatment

Common symptoms of sinusitis

• Pain or pressure around the eyes, forehead, or cheeks
• Blocked or congested nose
• Thick yellow or green nasal discharge
• Reduced sense of smell
• Headache that worsens when bending forward
• Tooth or jaw pain in some cases

How Pharmacy First treatment works

1. Visit us at the pharmacy (no appointment needed)
2. Speak to a trained pharmacist in a private consultation room
3. Your symptoms are assessed clinically
4. Treatment is provided if appropriate
5. If needed, we will refer you to a GP or urgent care service

Do I need antibiotics for sinusitis?

Most cases of sinusitis are viral and do not require antibiotics. Symptoms often improve on their own within a few weeks.

Antibiotics may only be used if symptoms are severe, persistent, or suggest a bacterial infection.

When to seek urgent medical help

• Severe facial pain or swelling
• Symptoms lasting more than 3 weeks without improvement
• High fever that does not settle
• Vision changes or swelling around the eyes
• Symptoms worsening despite treatment

Benefits of Pharmacy First

• No GP appointment required
• Fast NHS access to treatment
• Private consultation with our pharmacist
• Clinical assessment and treatment where appropriate
• Convenient local service

Book online or visit us today

You can visit us at the pharmacy for a same-day assessment, or book an appointment online for a time that suits you.

Booking online helps reduce waiting time and ensures a pharmacist is ready to see you when you arrive.

If you are unsure, contact us and we can advise you before you travel.