Sinusitis: symptoms, self-care and when to get help
Checked against current published health guidance — last reviewed 2026-09-23. See how we check.
Sinusitis is swelling of the sinuses, usually after a cold. It often causes a blocked nose, facial pain or pressure and a reduced sense of smell, and usually gets better on its own within 2 to 3 weeks. Swelling around the eyes, vision changes or a severe headache need urgent help.
Overview
The sinuses are small air-filled spaces behind the cheekbones and forehead. When they become inflamed, usually after a viral infection, mucus cannot drain properly, causing pain, pressure and congestion.
Symptoms can include pain or tenderness around the cheeks, eyes or forehead, a blocked or runny nose, green or yellow mucus, a reduced sense of smell, a high temperature, toothache and bad breath.
What may help
- Rest, drink plenty of fluids and take a standard painkiller if needed
- Hold a warm clean flannel over your face for a few minutes
- Rinse the inside of your nose with a salt water solution
- Ask a pharmacist about decongestant sprays or tablets, which should only be used for a short time
When to see a pharmacist or GP
- Symptoms that are severe or that painkillers are not helping
- Symptoms that are getting worse or have not improved after 10 days
- Sinusitis that keeps coming back
When it could be an emergency
- Redness or swelling around the eyes
- Changes to your vision, such as double vision
- A severe headache, stiff neck or sensitivity to light
- Feeling confused or very unwell
If any of these apply, don't wait — call your local emergency number (see emergency numbers by country, or Red Flags in the app), or go straight to your nearest emergency department.
Want more detail, tailored to your own situation?
Look up "Sinusitis" in the appCommon questions
How long does sinusitis last?
Most cases get better on their own within 2 to 3 weeks. See a GP if symptoms have not improved after 10 days or are getting worse.
Do I need antibiotics for sinusitis?
Usually not, because most sinusitis is caused by a virus. A GP may prescribe antibiotics if a bacterial infection is likely.
Is sinusitis contagious?
Sinusitis itself is not usually contagious, but the cold that often triggers it can be passed on.
Can I use a decongestant spray every day?
Only for a short time. Using decongestant nasal sprays for more than about a week can make congestion worse. A pharmacist can advise.
Official sources
Related topics
Common Cold
What's normal, self-care, and when to get checked.
Headaches
Common causes, self-care, and red-flag symptoms.
Hay Fever
Symptoms, self-care, and when to seek help.
Cough
How long a cough lasts and when to get it checked.
General information only, last checked 2026-09-23 — not medical advice and not a diagnosis. This page doesn't cover every cause or every person's situation; for anything specific to you or someone in your care, speak to a pharmacist, GP, or other qualified professional. See how we check. Be Health Wise is part of the Be Wise family of apps.