system. How to tell the difference between viral sinusitis and bacterial sinusitis Only a trained healthcare professional can give you a definitive diagnosis. However, the duration of the infection may indicate whether you have viral sinusitis or bacterial sinusitis. Viral sinusitis (opens in a usually clears up by itself within 5 to 7 days and will not be affected by antibiotics. Bacterial sinusitis (opens in a - can last 10 days or more. Symptoms may also worsen after first appearing. If your sinusitis is not getting better after 10 days, seek medical advice as you may require an antibiotic. However, in most cases, antibiotics are not needed. Sinusitis self-care Whether your sinusitis is viral or bacterial, there are some steps you can take at home to ease your symptoms. Rest as much as you can Drink plenty of fluidsClean your nose with a salt-water solutionPut a warm compress over your nose and forehead to relieve pressureIn some mild cases, it helps to breathe in steam from hot water or a hot showerTake painkillers like ibuprofen or paracetamol Use an over-the-counter decongestant spray (for no longer than 7 days, unless recommended otherwise by a doctor).