What Is the First Treatment for Cellulitis?

Cellulitis is a deeper skin infection that can cause expanding redness, warmth, swelling, tenderness, and sometimes fever. A clinician selects an antibiotic based on the examination, infection site, symptoms, allergies, and local clinical considerations. Antibiotics may be given by mouth when the illness is suitable for outpatient care; more serious illness may need treatment in a medical setting.

An abscess is a pocket of pus rather than diffuse infected skin. Antibiotics alone may not empty that pocket, so a clinician may recommend a small drainage procedure when one is found.

Arrange prompt medical assessment for a new area of spreading redness or painful swelling. Take prescribed medicine exactly as directed and do not share leftover antibiotics. Keep the area clean, avoid squeezing it, and note whether the border of redness is extending. Rest and drink fluids if you feel unwell.

You can read more about [Cellulitis](/conditions/cellulitis/) and [Antibiotics For Skin Infection](/treatments/medical-dermatology/antibiotic-therapy-for-skin-infection/).

Seek urgent care for rapidly spreading redness, severe pain, fever with chills, confusion, faintness, blistering, skin that turns dark, or swelling near the eye. Also seek prompt review if symptoms worsen after treatment begins or you cannot keep medicine down. A painful, soft-centred lump may need assessment for abscess drainage.

Ask which antibiotic is being used, how to take it, what improvement to watch for, and whether the area could contain an abscess. Mention medicine allergies, pregnancy, immune problems, and any previous skin infections.