Pharmacy First condition
Sinusitis
Blocked, painful sinuses, facial pressure and a runny or congested nose.
Sinusitis means inflammation of the sinuses — the small air-filled spaces behind your cheeks, forehead and nose. It is very common and, through NHS Pharmacy First, you can be seen by our pharmacist in Timperley without a GP appointment or referral.
What causes it
Most cases of sinusitis follow a cold or other viral infection and clear up on their own within two to three weeks. A smaller number are caused by bacteria or are linked to allergies. Because most are viral, antibiotics often make no difference, which is why the pharmacist assesses each person individually.
Symptoms to look out for
Typical symptoms include pain, tenderness or pressure across the face (often worse when you bend forward), a blocked or runny nose, a reduced sense of smell or taste, a headache, and sometimes pain in the upper teeth. A high temperature or thick discoloured mucus can also occur.
What the pharmacist can do
The pharmacist asks about your symptoms, how long they have lasted and your medical history, then explains what is likely to help. They will recommend self-care that genuinely works and, where it is clinically appropriate under the NHS pathway, can supply treatment directly — without you needing to see a GP. If your symptoms suggest something more serious, they will refer you.
Self-care that helps
Rest, plenty of fluids, simple pain relief, and warm face packs can ease symptoms. Steam inhalation and saline nasal rinses may also help. The pharmacist can talk you through these and what to expect.
When to seek urgent help
Get urgent medical help if you develop a severe headache, swelling or redness around the eyes, vision changes, confusion, or if symptoms worsen quickly. These are uncommon but need prompt attention.
Symptoms
Facial pain or pressure, a blocked or runny nose, reduced sense of smell, and sometimes a headache or toothache.
What the pharmacist can do
The pharmacist assesses your symptoms and gives self-care advice. Where it is clinically appropriate, NHS treatment can be supplied directly without seeing a GP.
When to see a GP or seek urgent help
Seek urgent help if there is severe headache, swelling around the eyes, confusion, or symptoms that are rapidly getting worse.