Preseptal cellulitis: what to know

The infection affects tissues outside the eye socket. It can cause one eyelid to become red, warm, swollen, and tender, sometimes after a scratch, insect bite, sinus problem, or nearby skin infection. Unlike infection within the socket, eye movement and vision are generally preserved, but only a clinician can safely tell the difference.

Arrange same-day medical advice if preseptal cellulitis is suspected. A clinician will examine the eyelid, eye movements, vision, and general health. Treatment commonly involves prescribed antibiotics; the route depends on age, severity, ability to take medicine, and response. Do not squeeze the swollen area or use leftover antibiotics. Keep the area clean and follow the prescribed course.

Go to emergency care for pain when moving the eye, reduced or double vision, a bulging eye, inability to open the eye, severe headache, vomiting, confusion, marked weakness, or rapidly worsening swelling. Fever or spreading redness also warrants prompt review because infection can extend beyond the eyelid.

Ask whether the infection is limited to the eyelid, which treatment route is appropriate, how improvement will be checked, and which changes should trigger an immediate return.