Boils and cellulitis are distinct skin conditions, but both can occur due to bacterial infections. Doctors may prescribe antibiotics to treat cellulitis, and home remedies, such as a warm compress, to ...
Cellulitis (sel-u-LIE-tis) is a spreading skin infection, most commonly of the lower leg. It's caused by bacteria entering through a break in the skin. The affected skin is swollen, painful and warm to the touch. The infection can cause a fever and become very serious, involving deeper tissues. The condition often clears up with antibiotic medicine.
Cellulitis treatment usually includes a prescription antibiotic medicine taken by mouth. You take it for as long as your healthcare professional directs, usually 5 to 10 days, even after you feel better. Symptoms typically disappear a few days after you start treatment. You may need to be hospitalized and receive medicine through your veins if: Symptoms don't respond to the medicine taken by ...
Cellulitis isn't usually spread from person to person. Cellulitis is an infection of the deeper layers of the skin most commonly caused by bacteria that normally live on the skin's surface. You have an increased risk of developing cellulitis if you: Left untreated, cellulitis can rapidly turn into a ...
To help prevent recurrent episodes of cellulitis — a bacterial infection in the deepest layer of skin — keep skin clean and well moisturized. Prevent cuts and scrapes by wearing appropriate clothing and footwear, using gloves when necessary, and trimming fingernails and toenails with care. Promptly treat any cuts or infections on the skin's surface, such as athlete's foot.
Find out skin care tips to help prevent another episode of cellulitis