Key Information

The Cause: Most sinus infections are triggered by a viral infection, such as the common cold. Think of the virus as a "fire" that your immune system puts out.

The Symptoms: The blockage and pressure you feel are like the "smoke" left behind. It can take 2 to 3 weeks for your body to clear this smoke away, even after the virus is gone.

Antibiotics: Antibiotics kill bacteria, not viruses. Using them for viral sinusitis is like trying to clear smoke with a fire extinguisher. It won't work and may cause side effects.

Trust the Advice: We follow strict guidelines to make sure antibiotics remain effective for when they are truly needed to treat bacterial infections.

What Happens Next?

For most cases of sinusitis, the best treatment is patience and self-care while your body clears the inflammation. But, if your symptoms continue for longer than expected, click the link below to discuss with us.

When to Contact Us

While most cases get better on their own, please contact us if you experience signs that a bacterial infection may have developed:

• Duration: Your symptoms have lasted for more than 3 weeks.
• Severity: You have a very high temperature/fever.
• Worsening Pattern: Your symptoms started to improve but have suddenly got worse again.

Discuss Your Symptoms

Further Information

To learn more about sinusitis, please see our sinusitis series:

Treating Sinusitis at Home

Sinusitis: Warning Signs to Watch For

Managing Chronic Sinusitis

For more information on sinusitis, please visit the NHS website.

• Learn more about sinusitis

(Please link the following to ‘Learn more about sinusitis’ above - )

Last reviewed: 27 April 2026
Next review due: 27 April 2029