Does a GP consultation treat sinusitis?

Sinusitis is inflammation of the spaces around the nose. It may cause blocked or runny nose, facial pressure, reduced smell, headache, cough or thick nasal mucus. A GP can ask about the duration and pattern of symptoms and examine your nose, throat and face. This helps distinguish sinusitis from a cold, allergy or another cause of facial pain.

Treatment depends on the likely cause and severity. A clinician may suggest fluids, rest, saline rinsing or suitable pain relief. A nasal medicine may be considered in some situations, while antibiotics are not needed for every episode. Review is useful when symptoms are severe, persistent, recurrent or getting worse after initial improvement.

Arrange a GP appointment if facial pain, blocked breathing through the nose or discharge is troubling you, or if symptoms are not settling. Note when the illness began, whether there was a recent cold, any fever, dental pain, allergies and the medicines you have tried. Use medicines only as directed and avoid repeatedly using a decongestant spray beyond its instructions.

Ask how to perform a saline rinse safely and what improvement to expect. Contact the practice again if symptoms worsen or fail to follow the agreed course. Read more about [Sinusitis](/conditions/sinusitis/) and [GP Consultation](/treatments/consultations-and-assessment/gp-consultation/).

Seek urgent medical help for swelling or redness around an eye, vision changes, severe headache unlike your usual headaches, confusion, a stiff neck, or marked facial swelling. These signs can indicate a complication or another condition needing rapid assessment. Seek prompt advice if you are becoming severely unwell or cannot keep fluids down.

Ask: Is this sinusitis or another problem? Do I need prescription treatment? Which nasal treatments are suitable for me? How should I use a saline rinse? What changes mean I need urgent review?