Left facial cellulitis

Cellulitis can begin when bacteria enter through a small cut, scratch, insect bite, acne spot or another break in the skin. The affected side may become red, warm, swollen, tender and increasingly painful; the border can expand over time. A skin infection on the face is assessed carefully because nearby eyelid tissues and deeper structures may be involved. Athlete’s foot or another skin problem can create breaks elsewhere, but it does not confirm the cause of facial symptoms. A clinician may need to distinguish cellulitis from an allergic reaction, irritation or another condition.

Arrange same-day medical assessment for suspected facial cellulitis, especially when redness is spreading or the skin is hot and painful. Do not squeeze the area or apply leftover antibiotics. Gently clean any break in the skin, keep the area protected, and mark or photograph the edge of redness only if this does not delay care. Tell the clinician about allergies, recent procedures, bites, dental symptoms, immune problems and diabetes. Take prescribed treatment exactly as directed and return for review if the area does not begin settling.

Go to emergency care for swelling around the eye, vision changes, severe headache, confusion, stiff neck, trouble breathing, faintness or rapidly worsening illness. Fever, chills, marked weakness, fast breathing or a racing heartbeat can signal a serious infection such as sepsis. Children, older adults and people with diabetes or reduced immunity may need especially prompt evaluation. Do not wait for a rash to become extensive before seeking help.

Does this look like cellulitis or another facial condition? Is the eye, mouth or a deeper structure involved? Which treatment should I use and for how long? What changes mean I should return immediately? Could a wound, dental problem or another infection be the entry point?