🤧 NHS Pharmacy First – Sinusitis Assessment & Treatment

🩺 Sinusitis (Acute Sinus Infection) – NHS Service

Sinusitis occurs when the sinuses become inflamed, often following a cold or upper respiratory infection. This can lead to pressure, facial pain, congestion, and headaches.

🤧 Many cases improve without treatment, but some bacterial infections may require clinical management.

🏥 Through the NHS Pharmacy First service, eligible patients can be assessed and treated by a pharmacist without needing to see a GP.

👥 Who Is Eligible for This Service?

You may be able to use this service if:

✅ You are aged 12 years or over

✅ Your symptoms started within the last 10 days

✅ Symptoms are not severe or rapidly worsening

✅ There is no swelling around the eyes or forehead

✅ You are not significantly unwell

🩺 A pharmacist will carry out a private consultation to confirm whether treatment under this service is appropriate.

🔍 Typical Symptoms of Sinusitis

Common symptoms include:

😖 Facial pressure or pain (cheeks, forehead, around the eyes)

🤧 Nasal congestion or blockage

🟡 Thick nasal discharge

🤕 Headache

🦷 Toothache or upper jaw discomfort

👃 Reduced or altered sense of smell

🌡️ Fever or tiredness

Sinusitis is often viral in the early stages, meaning antibiotics are not always needed.

💊 How Prescriptions Pharmacy Can Help

Following assessment, the pharmacist may:

🩺 Assess your symptoms and clinical history

💊 Supply antibiotics only if clinically appropriate

💡 Provide advice on managing pain and congestion

💧 Recommend suitable over‑the‑counter treatments

📤 Refer you to your GP or another service if required

🔒 All consultations are carried out confidentially in a private consultation room.

⚠️ When to Seek Further Medical Advice

You should seek medical attention if:

❌ Symptoms last longer than 10 days or worsen after improving

❌ You develop swelling around the eyes or forehead

❌ You have a high fever or feel very unwell

❌ You experience severe headache, confusion, or vision changes

❌ You have frequent or ongoing sinus infections

If necessary, the pharmacist will arrange appropriate referral.

📅 Appointments & Cost

📱 Appointments recommended (walk‑ins may be available)

⏱️ Quick and convenient consultations

💙 FREE on the NHS for eligible patients

🌟 Why Choose Prescriptions Pharmacy?

✔ NHS Pharmacy First provider

✔ No need to wait for a GP appointment

✔ Experienced pharmacist‑led consultations

✔ Fast access to treatment and advice

✔ Local, accessible healthcare service

We support patients with timely NHS care within the community.

🔗 Other NHS Pharmacy First Services Available

🩺 Shingles

🩺 Insect bites and stings

🩺 Impetigo

🩺 Ear infection (acute otitis media)

🩺 Sore throat

🩺 Uncomplicated urinary tract infection (UTI)

📘 Learn More About Sinusitis

👉 Learn more about sinusitis on the NHS website