Do antibiotics for a skin infection treat cellulitis?

Cellulitis affects deeper skin and nearby soft tissue, often causing warmth, tenderness, swelling, and redness that may expand. Antibiotics target the bacteria driving the infection. A clinician may prescribe medicine by mouth when the illness is suitable for outpatient care, while a more serious infection may need treatment in hospital. Redness and soreness can take time to settle even after bacteria are being controlled, so follow-up may be needed to check the direction of change.

Take the prescribed antibiotic at the scheduled times and do not stop early unless your clinician tells you to change the plan. Rest and raise an affected arm or leg when practical to reduce swelling. Keep any wound clean and follow dressing instructions. Mark the edge of redness only if a clinician advises it, and contact the practice if the area extends, pain increases, or you develop new symptoms. Do not use leftover antibiotics or share your medicine.

Get urgent medical help if redness is spreading quickly, pain is severe, fever or chills develop, blisters or darkened skin appear, or you feel faint, confused, or very unwell. Emergency care is needed for breathing difficulty or swelling of the face or throat. Cellulitis near the eye, a surgical wound, or a bite deserves prompt assessment. Learn more from Cellulitis and Antibiotics For Skin Infection.

Ask when your symptoms should start to improve, how to monitor the border of redness, whether a wound or blood test is needed, and what to do if you miss a dose. Mention allergies, pregnancy, kidney disease, diabetes, immune problems, and recent antibiotic use.