Treatment for cellulitis around the eye

Swelling around the eye can involve the eyelid skin or deeper tissues, and those situations need different levels of care. A clinician may check vision, eye movement, the eye surface, temperature, and the spread of redness. They may also look for a wound, bite, sinus problem, or another entry point. Mild, localised infection may be treated with medicine by mouth and review, while severe infection or concern about deeper spread may require hospital treatment through a vein. Do not choose treatment from appearance alone.

Take prescribed antibiotics exactly as directed and complete the plan unless the prescriber changes it. Keep the area clean, avoid squeezing or rubbing it, and do not put non-prescribed creams or drops near the eye. Marking the edge of redness with a pen can help you describe spread to a clinician, but it does not replace review. If symptoms worsen, or do not begin settling as expected, contact the treating service rather than waiting for the course to finish.

Seek emergency care for new vision change, double vision, pain with eye movement, severe headache, vomiting, confusion, an eye that appears pushed forward, rapidly worsening swelling, or severe fever and weakness. These signs can indicate infection beyond the superficial skin. Confusion, faintness, or breathing difficulty may signal Sepsis and require immediate help.

Ask which tissues are affected, why a particular antibiotic and route were chosen, when improvement should be checked, what side effects need action, and whether an eye specialist or hospital review is needed.