If you’ve ever experienced the familiar symptoms of sinusitis you know that it’s not fun! Uncomfortable pressure in your face, difficulty breathing through your nose, and a relentless headache that just won’t go away suggest that you might be dealing with sinusitis.

Sinusitis is a common condition that affects many people, especially during the colder months. But what exactly is sinusitis, how can you tell it apart from a simple cold, and when should you seek help?

Understanding Sinusitis: Symptoms to Watch Out For

Sinusitis, or a sinus infection, occurs when the lining of the sinuses (small air-filled cavities behind your cheekbones and forehead) becomes inflamed. This inflammation can be triggered by a variety of causes, including viruses, bacteria, or even allergens.

While sinusitis symptoms can vary from person to person and how severe they are there are common ones to keep an eye out for.

One of the most common symptoms is facial pain and pressure. You may feel a throbbing pain or pressure around your eyes, forehead, and cheeks, which can worsen when you bend over or lie down.

This combined with a stuffy nose that lasts for more than a week is a typical sign of sinusitis. This may also be accompanied by thick, yellow or green mucus.

Alongisde these you may notice a persistent headache, reduced sense of smell and taste, a cough and sore throat. It’s also very common for people with sinusitis to feel far more tired that they’re used to.

These symptoms can range from mild to severe, and in some cases, they may resolve on their own. While these symptoms are very similar to a cold, if they persist for more than a week or worsen, it’s time to consider whether you’re dealing with sinusitis rather than just a cold.

How to Tell the Difference Between A Cold & Sinusitis?

It’s easy to mistake sinusitis for a common cold, as they share many symptoms, like nasal congestion and a sore throat. However, the big differences are time and severity of symptoms.

A typical cold lasts about 5-7 days, with symptoms gradually improving. If your symptoms persist beyond 10 days or worsen after seeming to improve, you might have more than just a cold. Plus, if these symptoms are severe it’s more likely to be sinusitis than the common cold.

Another key difference is a fever, while a mild fever can happen with a cold, a higher fever more likely points to sinusitis.nusitis, a higher fever is more

When to Speak to a GP About Sinusitis

In most cases, sinusitis can be managed at home with the help of over-the-counter medications and Pharmacy First. However, there are times when it’s important to see your GP:

• If your symptoms haven’t improved after a week and a half, it’s time to see your GP. If you’re symptoms include intense facial pain or a high fever you see your GP or call 111 for advice.
• If your congestion is so severe that you’re having trouble breathing or if you notice any visual disturbances, seek medical help immediately and got to A&E.
• If you’re having frequently suffering with sinusitis we recommend seeing your GP so they can investigate further what’s causing it to keep coming back, they might be able to refer you for additional treatment.

How Pharmacy First Can Help You Manage Sinusitis

Pharmacy First is an NHS service available at your local Crest Pharmacy that allows you to get advice and treatment for a range of common conditions, including sinusitis, without needing to see your GP first.

This service is designed to make healthcare more accessible and convenient, especially for conditions that don’t always require a doctor’s appointment. For patients 12 years old and over we can offer advice and treatment through this scheme. If the patient is younger than 12 then we would advise you to contact your GP for treatment.

At our local pharmacies we’re open late, sometimes as late as 9pm, so we can see you at a time that works for your schedule. You can easily book a consultation online here, and we’ll get back to you as soon as we can.

No more waiting for the GP appointments to open at 8am, you can quickly and easily get the help you need through Pharmacy First with Crest.

If you’d prefer to visit us in person for advice and treatment that’s not a problem! We have pharmacies available across Tamworth, Birmingham and Kidderminster so we’re always close by to help. Find your nearest Crest Pharmacy here.

FAQs About Sinusitis

Can I treat sinusitis at home?

Yes, many cases of sinusitis can be managed at home with rest, plenty of fluids, and over-the-counter treatments like nasal decongestants or pain relievers. If your symptoms last for more than 10 days or get progressively worse, it’s best to consult with a pharmacist or GP.

Can I prevent sinusitis?

While you can’t always prevent sinusitis, keeping your sinuses clear by using saline nasal sprays, staying hydrated, and avoiding allergens can reduce your risk. If you’re prone to sinus infections, speak to your pharmacist for more personalised advice or visit your GP.

When should I avoid using over-the-counter nasal sprays?

Nasal sprays should generally not be used for more than a few days at a time, as overuse can lead to rebound congestion, where your symptoms worsen once you stop using the spray. Your pharmacist can guide you on how to use these products safely.

How does Pharmacy First work for sinusitis?

Pharmacy First allows you to get treatment and support with your sinusitis symptoms without the need to see a GP. Book an appointment online and we’ll be in touch as soon as possible to help you, or visit your nearest Crest Pharmacy and ask for a Pharmacy First appointment.