Treatment:

Cellulitis treatment may require hospitalization if it is severe enough to warrant intravenous antibiotics and close observation. At other times, treatment with oral antibiotics and close outpatient follow-up is enough. Treatment is focused on control of the infection and prevention of complications.

Antibiotics are given to control infection, and analgesics may be needed to control pain.

Elevate the infected area, usually higher than the heart, to minimize swelling. Rest until symptoms improve.

Expectations (prognosis):

Cure is possible with 7 to 10 days of treatment. Cellulitis may be more severe in people with chronic diseases and people who are susceptible to infection (immunosuppressed).

Complications:

• Tissue death (gangrene)
• Sepsis, generalized infection and shock
• Meningitis (if cellulitis is on the face)
• Lymphangitis (inflammation of the lymph vessels)

Calling your health care provider:

Call your health care provider if symptoms indicate that cellulitis may be present. Seek medical attention urgently if it appears to involve the face.

Call your health care provider if you are being treated for cellulitis and new symptoms develop, such as persistent fever, drowsiness, lethargy, blistering over the cellulitis, or extension of the red streaks.