Cellulitis is an infection of the deep layers of skin. A break in the skin, such as a cut or scratch, can let bacteria under the skin.
Cellulitis causes the affected skin to become red, swollen, warm, and sore. The reddened areas have a border you can see. An open sore may leak fluid (pus). You may have a fever, chills, and pain.
Cellulitis is treated with antibiotics taken for 7 to 10 days. An open sore may be cleaned and covered with cool wet gauze. Symptoms should get better 1 to 2 days after treatment is started. Make sure to take all the antibiotics for the full number of days prescribed by your health care provider. 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 throughout the body. This can cause serious illnesses, such as osteomyelitis (infection of the bone), endocarditis (inflammation of the inner lining of the heart and heart valves), and sepsis, a life-threatening complication of an infection.
Home care
Follow these tips:
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Limit the use of the part of your body with cellulitis.
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If the infection is on your leg, keep your leg raised while sitting. This helps reduce swelling.
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Take all of the antibiotic medicine exactly as directed until it is gone. Don't miss any doses. This may make the bacteria resistant to the prescribed antibiotics. Your infection will then be hard to treat. Finish taking all of the medicine even when your symptoms get better.
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Keep the affected area clean and dry.
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Wash your hands for 20 seconds with soap and clean, running water before and after touching your skin. Lather the back of your hands, wash between your fingers, and clean under your fingernails. Anyone else who touches your skin should also wash their hands. Don't share towels or other personal items, such as clothes, that may come in contact with the affected area.
Follow-up care
Follow up with your health care provider, or as advised. If your infection doesn't go away after finishing the first antibiotic, your provider will prescribe a different one. If your provider sent a sample of pus or discharge from the affected site to the lab, they may change the antibiotics. This depends on the lab reports.
When to call your doctor
Contact your health care provider right away if:
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You have red areas that spread.
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Your swelling or pain gets worse.
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Fluid (pus) is leaking from the skin.
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You have a fever of 100.4º F (38º C) or higher after 2 days on antibiotics.
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You have no improvement after 24 to 48 hours.
Online Medical Reviewer: Heather M Trevino BSN RNC
Online Medical Reviewer: Marianne Fraser MSN RN
Online Medical Reviewer: Shaziya Allarakha MD
Date Last Reviewed: 02/01/2025
© 2000-2025 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.
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