Sinusitis symptoms: when GP advice can help
Sinusitis can cause facial pressure, blocked nose, thick nasal discharge, reduced smell, headache or pain around the cheeks, forehead or teeth. Learn what may be causing symptoms and when to get medical advice.
Sinusitis often follows a cold and is commonly viral, but symptoms that are severe, prolonged, one-sided or worsening may need assessment. A GP can advise on self-care, nasal sprays, pain relief, antibiotics where appropriate, or whether another cause should be considered.
Book a GP appointment if symptoms last more than around 10 days without improvement, keep coming back, are associated with high fever, or you have swelling around the eye. Seek urgent help if symptoms are rapidly worsening or you feel seriously unwell.
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Symptoms and causes
Sinusitis often starts after a cold. It can cause a blocked or stuffy nose, facial pain or pressure around the cheeks, eyes or forehead, thick nasal discharge, reduced sense of smell, headache, toothache, cough and tiredness.
Sinusitis is inflammation of the air-filled spaces around the nose and face. It commonly follows a cold, when swelling and mucus stop the sinuses draining properly.
Most sinusitis is viral and improves without antibiotics. Allergies, nasal polyps, dental problems and repeated infections can also contribute.
Diagnosis and when a GP can help
Most sinusitis is diagnosed from symptoms and examination. Routine testing is not usually needed for a straightforward episode.
Many cases improve within two to three weeks. If symptoms are unusual, severe or recurrent, a GP can check for other causes, complications, or whether another condition such as allergy, migraine or dental infection could be involved.
Appointment option that may help:
- GP consultation: best for blocked sinuses, facial pain, prolonged symptoms or recurrent sinus infections. If your GP recommends tests, they cost extra and your results will follow after your visit.
Treatment and urgent symptoms
Self-care may include rest, fluids, simple pain relief if suitable, saline nasal rinses, and avoiding smoke or irritants. A pharmacist can advise on decongestants or nasal sprays where appropriate.
Antibiotics are not usually needed because most cases are viral. A GP may consider prescription treatment if symptoms are severe, prolonged, or suggest a bacterial infection.
Book a GP if symptoms are severe or one-sided, last more than 10 days without improvement, improve and then get worse again, keep coming back, or you have a high fever, facial swelling or feel very unwell. Seek urgent help for swelling around the eye, vision changes, severe headache, neck stiffness, confusion, drowsiness, or symptoms that are rapidly worsening.
If you are not sure whether your sinus symptoms need treatment, book a GP consultation. A DocTap GP can assess you and advise on the next step.