| ENCYCLOPEDIA INDEX |
|
Injury Disease Nutrition Poison Symptoms Surgery Test |
| A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z |
Cellulitis |
| Overview Symptoms Treatment Prevention |
| Alternative Names: |
| Skin infection - bacterial |
| Treatment: |
| Cellulitis treatment may require hospitalization if it is severe enough to warrant intravenous antibiotics and close observation. At other times, oral antibiotics and close outpatient follow-up suffice. Treatment is focused on control of the infection and prevention of complications. Antibiotics are given to control infection, and analgesics may be needed to control pain. Elevate the infected area, usually higher than the heart, to minimize swelling. Apply warm, moist compresses to the site to aid the body in fighting infection by increasing blood supply to the tissues. Rest until symptoms improve. |
| Expectations (prognosis): |
| Cure is possible with 7 to 10 days of treatment. Cellulitis may be more severe in people with chronic diseases and people who are susceptible to infection (immunosuppressed). |
| Complications: |
|
| Calling your health care provider: |
| Call your health care provider if symptoms indicate that cellulitis may be present. Call your health care provider if you are being treated for cellulitis and new symptoms develop, such as persistent fever, drowsiness, lethargy, blistering over the cellulitis, or extension of the red streaks. |
Cellulitis |
Cellulitis on the arm |
|