Facial cellulitis treatment antibiotics: what to know

Cellulitis is a bacterial infection in deeper layers of skin and nearby tissue. On the face, redness, warmth, tenderness, swelling, or skin that feels tight can spread over hours. A clinician may examine the borders of the swelling, check your temperature, and look for an entry point such as a cut, insect bite, dental problem, or skin condition. The antibiotic choice depends on the examination, allergies, other medicines, and whether the infection is mild or more serious. Do not use leftover antibiotics or share a prescription.

Arrange same-day medical advice for new facial redness and swelling. Take the prescribed medicine exactly as directed and finish the course unless the prescriber changes it. Keep the area clean, avoid squeezing or scratching it, and take a photograph to compare changes. Rest and drink fluids if you can. Tell the clinician about drug allergies, pregnancy, immune problems, recent dental treatment, and medicines you take. If symptoms are not settling or are spreading after treatment begins, contact the prescriber promptly.

Seek emergency help for swelling of the lips, tongue, or throat, trouble breathing or swallowing, confusion, faintness, severe drowsiness, or rapidly worsening swelling. Urgent assessment is also needed when swelling is near the eye, vision changes, eye movement hurts, a severe headache develops, or you cannot open your mouth normally. These signs can indicate a serious infection or a severe allergic reaction and should not be monitored at home.

Ask which part of the face is infected, what improvement should look like, what to do if a dose is missed, and whether a dental or sinus source needs treatment. Ask which side effects require a call and whether any of your current medicines or allergies affect the prescription.