Sinus Infection Research Study
Researchers at the University of Washington are conducting the NOSES Study to learn which treatments work best for sinusitis and when antibiotics are truly helpful.
Fast Facts
Currently Experiencing One or More Sinus-Related Symptoms For 3 Weeks or Less
18-75
Years Old
Compensation
Provided Up To $160
Conducted in
Seattle, WA
Study Background
Sinusitis is common, uncomfortable, and often treated with antibiotics that may not always be necessary.
Sinusitis, sometimes called a “head cold”, causes swelling in the tissues of the nose and face, leading to symptoms like congestion, facial pressure, headache, and fatigue. While antibiotics are frequently prescribed, many cases of sinusitis improve without them, and unnecessary antibiotic use can lead to side effects, allergic reactions, and antibiotic resistance.
The NOSES Study aims to better understand how sinusitis improves over time and which treatments are most effective. By participating, you can help researchers improve future care for sinusitis while receiving close symptom monitoring, standard over-the-counter care guidance, and possible additional treatment if symptoms persist.
Study Background
Sinusitis is common, uncomfortable, and often treated with antibiotics that may not always be necessary.
Sinusitis, sometimes called a “head cold”, causes swelling in the tissues of the nose and face, leading to symptoms like congestion, facial pressure, headache, and fatigue. While antibiotics are frequently prescribed, many cases of sinusitis improve without them, and unnecessary antibiotic use can lead to side effects, allergic reactions, and antibiotic resistance.
The NOSES Study aims to better understand how sinusitis improves over time and which treatments are most effective. By participating, you can help researchers improve future care for sinusitis while receiving close symptom monitoring, standard over-the-counter care guidance, and possible additional treatment if symptoms persist.
Additional Information
This study is being done to determine which treatments work best for sinusitis and to reduce unnecessary antibiotic use when it does not provide benefit.
You may be eligible for this study if you meet the following criteria.
Inclusion Criteria:
- Ages 18-75
- Currently experiencing one or more sinus-related symptoms (e.g., facial pressure, nasal congestion or discharge, headache, reduced smell, fever <102°F, ear or tooth pain, fatigue, or bad breath) for 3 weeks or less
- Have not received systemic antibiotic treatment within the past 4 weeks
- No allergy to penicillins
- No prior sinus surgery or sinusitis complications (septal deviation, cosmetic procedures acceptable)
- Have not been hospitalized in the past 5 days
- No comorbidity or medication that affects immune response
If you join the NOSES Study, you will:
Complete a brief phone screening to see if you qualify
Enroll either virtually or in person at a study location
Complete health surveys remotely while following standard over-the-counter sinus care
Attend one required in-person visit for a finger stick blood sample
Continue symptom check-ins for up to 10 days
If symptoms persist at 10 days, you may receive additional treatment
You can be diagnosed with sinusitis during the study screening process.
Participants can receive up to $160 in total compensation, including:
$20 for enrollment
$20 for symptom check-in or treatment randomization
Additional compensation for completing study activities
Participants will also receive a complimentary sinus irrigation bottle. The study is open to people living within a 20-mile radius of the University of Washington–Seattle campus (King, Snohomish, and Pierce counties).
There is no cost for you to participate in our research study.