Cellulitis is a bacterial infection of the deep layers of skin. A break in the skin, such as a cut or scratch, can let bacteria under the skin. It may also occur from an infected oil gland (pimple) or hair follicle. If the bacteria get into deep layers of the skin, it can be serious. Cellulitis on the face is especially dangerous if it affects the skin around the eyes.
It causes the affected skin to become red, swollen, warm, and sore. The reddened areas have a visible border. You may have a fever, chills, and pain.
Cellulitis is treated with antibiotics taken for 7 to 10 days. The medicine is most often given by mouth, but infection around the eye may be treated with IV (in the vein) antibiotics to prevent spread into the eye socket. Symptoms should get better 1 to 2 days after treatment is started. Make sure to take all the antibiotics until they are gone. Keep taking the medicine even if your symptoms go away.
If not treated, cellulitis can get into the bloodstream and lymph nodes. The infection can then spread all over the body. This causes serious illness.
Home care
Follow these tips:
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Take all of the antibiotic medicine exactly as directed until it's gone. Don’t miss any doses, especially during the first 7 days. Don’t stop taking it when your symptoms get better.
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Use a washcloth soaked in cool water (cool compress) on your face to help reduce swelling and pain. Be sure to wash this compress after use or use a disposable cloth to prevent spreading the infection.
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You may use acetaminophen or ibuprofen to reduce pain. Don’t take these if you have chronic liver or kidney disease, or ever had a stomach ulcer or gastrointestinal bleeding. Talk with your healthcare provider first.
Follow-up care
Follow up with your healthcare provider as advised. If your infection doesn't go away after finishing the first antibiotic, your provider may prescribe a different medication or treatment as needed.
When to call your healthcare provider
Call your healthcare provider or seek medical care right away if any of these occur:
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Fever of 100.4º F (38º C) or higher, after 2 days on antibiotics
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Red areas that spread
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Swelling or pain that gets worse
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Fluid (pus) leaking from the skin
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An eyelid that swells shut or leaks fluid (pus)
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Changes in vision or eyesight
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Headache or neck pain that gets worse
Call 911
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Abnormal drowsiness or confusion
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Seizure
Online Medical Reviewer: L Renee Watson MSN RN
Online Medical Reviewer: Michael Lehrer MD
Online Medical Reviewer: Rita Sather RN
Date Last Reviewed: 10/01/2024
© 2000-2026 The StayWell Company, LLC. All rights reserved. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional's instructions.
