What to expect from antibiotic treatment for sinusitis

Sinusitis causes swelling in the lining of the nose and sinus passages, which can trap mucus and create pressure. Many episodes are linked to viruses, so an antibiotic is not useful for every case. If a clinician suspects a bacterial infection, the chosen medicine targets bacteria rather than directly opening blocked passages. A blocked or painful feeling may continue while inflammation settles.

Your clinician may recommend saline rinsing, fluids, rest, or another symptom treatment alongside the antibiotic. Follow the exact product instructions for any nasal treatment, especially if you have other medical conditions.

Take every dose at the prescribed time and complete the planned course unless your clinician tells you to change it. Do not share leftover antibiotics or use a previous prescription. Ask a pharmacist about spacing the medicine from other tablets and what to do if you miss a dose. Contact the prescriber if symptoms do not begin to improve as expected, worsen after initial improvement, or the medicine causes troublesome diarrhoea, rash, or vomiting.

Arrange urgent assessment for swelling around an eye, changes in vision, severe headache with neck stiffness, confusion, or marked drowsiness. Emergency help is needed for difficulty breathing, collapse, or swelling of the lips, tongue, or throat after a dose. Facial swelling, severe one-sided pain, or a high fever that is getting worse also deserves prompt medical review.

What makes a bacterial cause more likely in my case? Which symptoms should improve first? What can I safely use for congestion or pain, and when should I be re-examined?