Cellulitis around the eye: what to know

The eyelid or surrounding skin may become red, warm, swollen, and tender. One side may look puffy, and the area can worsen over a short time. Infection may follow a scratch, insect bite, skin condition, blocked gland, or nearby sinus problem. Infection limited to skin around the eye is different from infection deeper within the eye socket. Pain when moving the eye, reduced vision, double vision, or an eye that appears pushed forward are concerning features that require emergency evaluation.

Arrange same-day medical care for new redness or swelling around the eye, even without Fever. Do not squeeze the eyelid, pierce a lump, or apply leftover antibiotics or steroid creams unless prescribed for this episode. A clinician may examine eye movement, vision, the skin, and nearby areas, then choose antibiotics and decide whether hospital care or imaging is needed. Bring a list of medicines and allergies, and avoid contact lenses or eye makeup until assessed.

Go to emergency care immediately for vision change, severe headache, vomiting, pain with eye movement, restricted eye movement, double vision, confusion, marked drowsiness, or rapidly increasing swelling. Fever or feeling very unwell adds urgency. Infection near the eye can extend to deeper tissues or contribute to Sepsis, so do not wait for routine review when these signs appear.

Ask whether the infection is limited to the eyelid skin, how vision and eye movement will be monitored, which treatment is needed, and what change should send you back urgently. Mention sinus symptoms, recent bites, wounds, procedures, diabetes, and immune problems.