Advice and NHS-funded treatment for sinusitis for those aged 12 years and above through the Pharmacy First Service.
Sinusitis is inflammation of the sinuses, usually caused by a viral infection. It can cause pain and pressure around the face, a blocked nose and thick nasal discharge. It most commonly affects adults, but it can happen to anyone.
We offer a free advice and treatment service through the NHS Pharmacy First Service for those aged 12 years and above, without the need to see your GP.
The pharmacist will assess your symptoms and check your suitability and eligibility for the service. If your symptoms suggest a more serious condition, you may be referred to your GP or another service for further assessment and treatment.
Sinusitis is inflammation of the small air-filled spaces (sinuses) around your nose and eyes. It is usually caused by a viral infection, such as a cold. The sinuses can become blocked and inflamed, leading to pain, pressure and a feeling of congestion. Most cases of sinusitis clear up on their own, but symptoms can sometimes last for several weeks.
Through the Pharmacy First Service, we can offer advice and treatment for eligible patients with sinusitis.
Sinusitis can cause a range of symptoms, which may develop after a cold or other upper respiratory infection.
The main signs and symptoms include:
A pharmacist will assess your symptoms during a consultation. If it is clinically appropriate and you are eligible through the NHS Pharmacy First service, treatment may be offered to you for sinusitis. The available treatment options include:
If you are not eligible for treatment through the Pharmacy First Service or the available treatments are not appropriate for you, the pharmacist may recommend an alternative treatment option or sign-post you to another service.
If your symptoms are severe, affect your eyes or vision, or do not improve, seek medical help.
Visit the NHS.uk webpage for up-to-date advice and information on sinusitis.
The service is available to children and adults aged 12 years and above who have symptoms of sinusitis. It does not cover immunosuppressed individuals, or patients suffering with chronic sinusitis (sinusitis that causes symptoms that last for more than 12 weeks).
Your pharmacist will check your suitability and eligibility during your consultation.
The pharmacist will assess your symptoms during a private consultation and check your suitability and eligibility for the NHS Pharmacy First Service.
If it is clinically appropriate, treatment may be offered. If your symptoms suggest a more serious infection or condition, you may be referred to your GP or another service.
The advice and treatment service is free through NHS Pharmacy First. If you are issued a prescription medicine, you will pay the standard NHS prescription charge unless you’re eligible for free prescriptions.
Many cases of sinusitis clear up on their own, although symptoms can sometimes last for several weeks. Your pharmacist will explain what to expect and how to use any treatment offered. Always follow their instructions.
If your symptoms are severe, affect your eyes or vision, or do not improve, seek medical help. Your pharmacist may recommend contacting your GP if your symptoms require further investigation or a different type of care. You can contact NHS 111 for urgent guidance if unsure what to do. In a medical emergency, call 999.