You May Think It’s Just A Cold? It Could Be Sinusitis
A blocked nose, facial pain and a pounding headache can make everyday life miserable. If you’ve been struggling with these symptoms, you may have Sinusitis.
The good news is that you don’t always need to wait for a GP appointment. Through the NHS Pharmacy First service, our trained pharmacy team can assess your symptoms and, where appropriate, provide treatment to help you feel better.
What is Sinusitis?
Sinusitis is inflammation of the sinuses (the small air-filled spaces behind your forehead, cheeks and eyes). It’s often caused by a cold or viral infection, but sometimes it can develop into a bacterial infection.
Most cases improve on their own within a couple of weeks, but if your symptoms continue or become more severe, it’s worth speaking to a pharmacist.
Common symptoms of Sinusitis:
You may have Sinusitis if you experience:
- A blocked or stuffy nose
- Thick green or yellow nasal discharge
- Pain or pressure around your cheeks, eyes or forehead
- A headache that feels worse when you bend over
- Reduced sense of smell or taste
- Toothache or jaw pain
- A high temperature (fever)
These symptoms can range from mild to quite uncomfortable, but help is available.
How we can help you:
Our pharmacist can:
- Assess your symptoms
- Help determine whether your Sinusitis is likely to be viral or bacterial
- Recommend the most appropriate treatment to relieve your symptoms
- Supply NHS treatment, including antibiotics where clinically appropriate
- Refer you to another healthcare professional if further assessment is needed
Our aim is to help you get the right treatment as quickly and conveniently as possible.
Who can use the service?
The NHS Pharmacy First service for Sinusitis is available for adults and children aged 12 years and over.
If you’re unsure whether the service is right for you, our pharmacy team will be happy to advise.
Looking after yourself at home
Alongside any treatment recommended by your pharmacist, you may find it helpful to:
- Drink plenty of fluids
- Get plenty of rest
- Take pain relief if needed, following the instructions on the packaging
- Breathe in warm steam carefully (taking care to avoid burns)
- Use saline nasal sprays or rinses to help clear congestion
Many people start to feel better within a few days, although symptoms can sometimes last a little longer.
When should you seek urgent medical help?
You should seek urgent medical advice if you:
- Have swelling or redness around your eyes
- Develop changes to your vision
- Experience severe swelling of your face
- Have a very high fever or become confused
- Have symptoms that are rapidly getting worse despite treatment
These symptoms are uncommon but need prompt medical assessment.
We’re here to help
If sinus pain or congestion is getting you down, don’t suffer in silence. Visit your local Badham Pharmacy and speak to one of our friendly pharmacists.
We’ll assess your symptoms, offer expert advice, and if appropriate, provide treatment through the NHS Pharmacy First service, helping you breathe easier and get back to feeling your best.