Sinusitis
NHS Pharmacy First – Sinusitis Treatment at Neils Pharmacy
Sinusitis (Acute) – Pharmacy First Service
Sinusitis is an inflammation of the sinuses, often developing after a cold or upper respiratory infection. It can cause facial pain, pressure, congestion, and headaches.
🤧 Most cases improve on their own, but some bacterial infections may benefit from treatment.
🏥 Under the NHS Pharmacy First service, eligible patients can receive expert assessment and treatment directly from a pharmacist, without needing to see a GP.
Who Can Use This Service?
You may be eligible for treatment at Neils Pharmacy if:
✅ You are aged 12 years or over
✅ Your symptoms started within the last 10 days
✅ Symptoms are not severe or rapidly worsening
✅ You do not have swelling around the eyes or forehead
✅ You are not severely unwell
🩺 Our pharmacist will carry out a private consultation to confirm whether this service is suitable for you.
Common Symptoms of Sinusitis
Symptoms may include:
😖 Facial pain or pressure (cheeks, forehead, or around the eyes)
🤧 Blocked or congested nose
🟡 Thick nasal discharge (yellow or green)
🤕 Headache
🦷 Toothache or jaw discomfort
👃 Reduced sense of smell
🌡️ Fever or fatigue
Sinusitis is often viral, particularly in the early stages, and antibiotics are not always required.
How We Can Help
If appropriate, our pharmacist may:
🩺 Carry out a clinical assessment
💊 Supply antibiotics only if clinically appropriate
💡 Provide advice on pain relief and symptom management
💧 Recommend nasal sprays or self-care treatments
📤 Refer you to your GP or another service if required
🔒 All consultations are carried out in a private consultation room.
When to Seek Medical Advice
You should seek further medical advice if:
❌ Symptoms last longer than 10 days or worsen after initial improvement
❌ You develop swelling around the eyes, eyelids, or forehead
❌ You have a high fever or feel seriously unwell
❌ You experience severe headache, visual changes, or confusion
❌ You have repeated or chronic sinus infections
If needed, our pharmacist will ensure you are referred appropriately.
Appointments & Cost
📱 Appointments are recommended, with some walk-in availability
⏱️ Quick and convenient consultations
💙 FREE on the NHS for eligible patients
Other NHS Pharmacy First Services Available
🩺 Shingles
🩺 Impetigo
🩺 Ear infection (acute otitis media)
🩺 Uncomplicated urinary tract infection (UTI)
Book Your Sinusitis Consultation Today
If sinus pain or congestion is affecting your daily life, our pharmacist can assess your symptoms and advise on the best next steps.
The Pharmacy First service builds on the NHS Community Pharmacist Consultation Service which has run since October 2019. The consultation service enables patients to be referred into community pharmacy for a minor illness or an urgent repeat medicine supply.