Does antibiotic treatment treat sinusitis?

Sinusitis causes swelling and mucus build-up around the nose and face. A viral illness is a common trigger, while bacteria can sometimes become involved. Symptoms such as facial pressure, blocked or runny nose, reduced smell, cough, and thick discharge do not by themselves prove that antibiotics are needed. A clinician considers how symptoms have developed, how severe they are, and whether they are improving before recommending treatment.

Antibiotics work against bacteria, not viruses. Taking them when they are unlikely to help can cause side effects and make future infections harder to treat. A prescribed course should be taken exactly as directed, even if you begin to feel better.

Rest, drink fluids, and use saline nasal rinses if they are suitable for you. A pharmacist or clinician can advise about pain relief or a nasal treatment, taking your medical history and other medicines into account. Do not use leftover antibiotics or someone else’s prescription. If symptoms are persistent, severe, or worsening after initial improvement, arrange an assessment so the cause and treatment can be reviewed.

Seek urgent medical help for swelling or redness around an eye, changes in vision, severe headache, confusion, a stiff neck, or marked swelling of the face. Arrange prompt care if you are very unwell, have trouble breathing, or cannot keep fluids down. These features need assessment because infection or another problem may require treatment beyond home care.

Ask whether your symptoms fit viral or bacterial sinusitis, which treatments are appropriate for you, and what change would mean you should return for review.