How long does antibiotic treatment take to work for sinusitis?

Many sinus infections are caused by viruses, so antibiotics are not helpful for every episode. When a clinician prescribes one, the aim is to treat suspected bacterial infection. Pressure may ease before the nose feels clear, and mucus or a cough can persist as swollen sinus passages recover.

If symptoms are unchanged or worse after the review point given by your clinician, contact them. The medicine, diagnosis or need for further examination may need reconsideration.

Take the antibiotic exactly as directed and do not save doses for a later illness. Rest, drink fluids if suitable for you, and use saline nasal measures only as advised. Avoid decongestant sprays for longer than the product instructions, because overuse can worsen blockage.

Seek urgent assessment for swelling or redness around an eye, vision changes, severe headache unlike your usual symptoms, a stiff neck, confusion, repeated vomiting or marked weakness. These features can signal a complication beyond routine sinus inflammation.

Ask what makes a bacterial cause likely, when they expect pressure and fever to improve, and how long congestion may remain. Check whether your other medicines, allergies or pregnancy affect the treatment choice.