How effective is GP consultation for chronic sinusitis?

Your GP may ask how long congestion, facial pressure, reduced smell, nasal discharge or cough have lasted and whether symptoms affect sleep. They can examine your nose, throat and face, review allergies and medicines, and distinguish sinusitis from problems such as a cold or dental pain.

Treatment depends on the assessment and may involve measures that reduce nasal inflammation, advice about saline rinsing, or treatment for an underlying trigger. Persistent or difficult symptoms may lead to an ear, nose and throat referral for more detailed assessment.

Write down the pattern of blockage, discharge, facial pain, smell changes and headaches. Mention asthma, allergies, dental symptoms, previous sinus problems and every medicine or nasal product you use. Tell the GP if symptoms affect one side more than the other.

Use recommended nasal treatments exactly as directed and allow time for a plan to work. Avoid adding or prolonging medicated decongestant sprays without advice, because overuse can worsen congestion. Return for review if symptoms remain troublesome or keep recurring.

Seek urgent care for swelling around an eye, vision changes, severe headache with neck stiffness, confusion, marked drowsiness, or rapidly worsening facial swelling. Arrange prompt medical review for a high fever, severe one-sided facial pain, or symptoms that deteriorate after initial improvement.

Ask whether the pattern fits chronic sinusitis, which treatment should be tried first, how to use a nasal spray or rinse correctly, and what would justify an ear, nose and throat referral.