Sinusitis is inflammation of the sinuses, the small air-filled spaces behind the cheeks, forehead and bridge of the nose. It is extremely common and, through NHS Pharmacy First, you can be seen by a pharmacist in Crewe without a GP appointment or referral.

What brings it on

Most cases follow a cold or another viral infection and clear within two to three weeks on their own. A smaller number stem from bacteria or are tied to allergies. Because the majority are viral, antibiotics frequently make no difference, which is why each person is assessed individually rather than treated by default.

Symptoms to watch for

Common features are tenderness or pressure across the face, often worse when bending forward, a blocked or runny nose, a dulled sense of smell or taste, headache and sometimes pain in the upper teeth. A raised temperature or thick discoloured mucus can occur too.

What the pharmacist will do

The pharmacist asks about your symptoms, their duration and your medical history, then sets out what is likely to help. They recommend self-care that genuinely works and, where the NHS pathway supports it, can supply treatment directly so you avoid a separate GP visit. Anything that points to a more serious cause is referred on.

Self-care that helps

Rest, fluids, simple pain relief and warm face packs all ease the pressure. Steam inhalation and saline nasal rinses can help loosen congestion. The pharmacist will explain what to try and what to expect.

When to seek urgent help

Get urgent medical help for a severe headache, swelling or redness around the eyes, vision changes, confusion, or a rapid worsening of symptoms. These are uncommon but need prompt attention.

Symptoms

Pain or pressure across the face, a congested or runny nose, a reduced sense of smell, and sometimes headache or upper toothache.

What the pharmacist can do

Our pharmacist reviews your symptoms and how long they have lasted, recommends self-care that works, and where it is clinically appropriate supplies NHS treatment directly.

When to see a GP or seek urgent help

Seek urgent help for a severe headache, swelling or redness around an eye, changes in vision, confusion, or symptoms that worsen quickly.