NHS Pharmacy First · Sinusitis
Sinusitis that won’t clear? See a pharmacist.
Sinusitis usually clears up by itself within 2 to 3 weeks. If you’re 12 or over and it’s lasted 10 days or more, or it’s getting worse, our pharmacist can check whether treatment would help.
- Age 12 and over
- Free consultation
- About 15 minutes
- Walk in, or book
Can I use Pharmacy First for sinusitis?
Yes, if
- You’re 12 or older
- You’ve had symptoms for 10 days or more, or they’re getting worse
Not covered
- Children under 12
- Sinusitis that has lasted more than 12 weeks, or keeps coming back
- You have a weakened immune system
Not covered? Come in anyway if you’d like advice. Our pharmacist will help where they can, and tell you who to see if they can’t.
Symptoms
- pain, swelling or tenderness around your cheeks, eyes or forehead
- a blocked or runny nose
- green or yellow mucus from your nose
- a reduced sense of smell
- a headache or toothache
- a high temperature
What happens when you come in
Walk in, or book a time
Ask at the counter for Pharmacy First. You don’t need to see your GP first.
A private chat with the pharmacist
The pharmacist asks how long you’ve had it, how bad it is and whether it’s getting better or worse. If it’s under 10 days, the best treatment is usually to look after yourself while it clears.
Advice, and treatment if you need it
The pharmacist explains what they think is going on and what will help. Any medicine they give you is supplied on the NHS.
We let your GP know
A short note goes to your GP surgery, so your record is up to date. If you need to see a doctor, we’ll tell you.
What treatment might I get?
For sinusitis that has lasted 10 days or more, the pharmacist may offer a steroid nasal spray to bring the swelling down.
If a bacterial infection is likely, they may offer antibiotics.
Decongestant sprays and painkillers can help in the meantime; the pharmacist will tell you which are safe for you.
Looking after yourself
- Rest, and drink plenty of fluids
- Take paracetamol or ibuprofen for the pain
- Hold a warm flannel over your face for a few minutes at a time
- Rinse your nose with salt water (a saline rinse)
- Don’t use decongestant sprays for more than a week
What it costs
The consultation is free. If the pharmacist gives you a medicine, you pay the usual NHS prescription charge for it, unless you get free prescriptions (for example if you’re under 16, 60 or over, pregnant, or get certain benefits). Check if you get free prescriptions.
Questions people ask
I’ve only had it a few days. Should I come in?
You’re welcome to, and the pharmacist will give you advice and suggest what will ease it. Treatment such as a nasal spray or antibiotics is usually only needed once it’s lasted 10 days or more.
Do I need an appointment?
No. Walk in any time we’re open and ask for Pharmacy First. If you’d rather not wait, book a time online. GP surgeries and NHS 111 can also send you to us.
How long does it take?
About 15 minutes with the pharmacist. If they’re with someone else, you may have a short wait.
Will my GP know?
Yes. We send a short note to your GP surgery afterwards, so your medical record stays up to date.
Is it private?
Yes. You’ll be seen in our private consultation room.
What should I bring?
A list of any medicines you take, including ones you buy yourself. Children under 16 should come with a parent or guardian.
Ready to be seen?
Walk in any time we’re open: Monday to Saturday, 8:00am to 10:30pm. Sunday, 12 noon to 10:30pm. Or book a time and skip the wait.