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<\/p>\nGet expert advice and targeted treatments from Superdrug Pharmacy, without the wait for a GP appointment<\/p>\n
Ginette Davies Senior Commercial Writer<\/p>\n
09:00, 02 Nov 2026Updated 16:57, 02 Nov 2026<\/p>\n
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You can visit your local Superdrug Pharmacy and speak to a pharmacist about conditions like sinusitis(Image: Getty Images)<\/p>\n
If autumn sinusitis leaves you suffering with facial pain and stubborn congestion, help is closer than you think.<\/p>\n
Superdrug senior pharmacy manager Tahera Dewji reveals the common treatment mistakes to avoid and how to get targeted relief fast.<\/p>\n
From private, walk-in consultations to direct NHS Pharmacy First treatments, here is how Superdrug is transforming high-street healthcare to keep you and your family feeling your best.<\/p>\n
Q. I always struggle with sinusitis in the coming months, especially when my kids go back to school, as they bring home coughs and colds. Is there any way I can boost my immune system or stop the symptoms lasting so long? Matt, 45, Morpeth<\/p>\n
A. Sinusitis can be a particularly miserable complication of a cold or respiratory infection. It happens when the lining of the sinuses becomes swollen and inflamed, which can prevent mucus draining properly.<\/p>\n
Symptoms can include a blocked or runny nose along with facial pain or pressure. While sinusitis can sometimes be caused by bacteria, most cases are linked to viral infections such as colds and usually get better without antibiotics.<\/p>\n
If you’re unsure whether you have a routine seasonal cold or acute sinusitis, instead of waiting for a GP appointment, you can visit your local Superdrug Pharmacy and speak to a pharmacist. Through the NHS Pharmacy First Service*, eligible patients can receive a consultation to assess symptoms and, where appropriate, access prescription-strength treatment.<\/p>\n
One of the biggest mistakes people with sinusitis can make is overusing decongestant nasal sprays or drops. While these can provide useful short-term relief, they should only be used for the recommended length of time (normally a maximum of five days)\u2013 if you use them for any longer, you could risk making your congestion worse, causing what\u2019s known as rebound congestion.<\/p>\n
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Superdrug senior pharmacy manager Tahera Dewji is answering your questions to support good winter health(Image: Tim Anderson)<\/p>\n
Rinsing the nasal cavity can help clear mucus from your nasal passages. If you’re using a nasal rinse, be sure to carefully follow instructions on how to use it. Steam inhalation can help unblock nasal passages, or try placing a warm clean flannel or cloth over your face to help ease some of the pressure and discomfort.<\/p>\n
Staying well hydrated is also important so drink plenty of water throughout the day. Warm drinks such as herbal teas can be soothing too, especially if your throat is irritated by coughing or post-nasal drip.<\/p>\n
If your symptoms aren\u2019t improving or are getting worse, speak to your Superdrug pharmacist. They will be able to assess your symptoms and offer you advice on the most appropriate treatment. If you are eligible for the NHS Pharmacy First Service your pharmacist may be able to supply prescription-strength medication.<\/p>\n
To help prevent sinusitis, focus on your overall health and try to look after your immune system throughout winter, when viruses and germs tend to thrive. Try to keep your stress levels down and be sure you get enough sleep by going to bed and waking at roughly the same time each day. Stay active with regular exercise and eat a healthy, balanced diet, including five portions of fruit and vegetables a day.<\/p>\n
Good hygiene can also help reduce the spread of coughs and colds, especially with school-age children. Encourage little ones to wash their hands regularly with soap and water, particularly when they come home from school, and teach them to cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue or into their elbow. Cleaning frequently touched surfaces and avoiding sharing cups, cutlery and towels when someone is unwell can also help reduce the spread of viruses.<\/p>\n
Through the Pharmacy First Service* you may be eligible for treatment from your pharmacist for the following seven conditions: middle ear infection (for those aged 1-17 years of age), impetigo (1 year and over); infected insect bites (1 year and over); shingles (18 years and over): sinusitis (12 years and over); sore throat (5 years and over) and urinary tract infections (women aged 16- 64 years).<\/p>\n