How to Treat Cellulitis

Cellulitis is a serious infection of the skin caused by bacteria. It typically develops from an injury but also can occur at the site of an intravenous catheter. Cellulitis most commonly occurs on the legs and feet where there is poor blood flow or an existing condition like a fungal infection. It can be caused by almost any bacteria, but Streptococcus is the most common source.

Instructions

• 1

  Treat cellulitis with antibiotics. Mild cases are usually treated at home with general antibiotics taken orally such as penicillin or dicloxacillin. Other antibiotics such as a cephalosporin, erythromycin or vancomycin may be prescribed for patients who are allergic to penicillin. Inform your doctor if the infection does not improve as predicted.

• 2

  Take a sample of blood, skin or fluid to identify the particular species of bacteria causing the infection. A specific antibiotic may need to be given if the cellulitis does not respond to general antibiotics.

• 3

  Apply a sterile saline compress and elevate the infected limbs to improve the circulation. This may reduce pain and aid in healing.

• 4

  Go to the hospital immediately to treat facial cellulitis in children. Antibiotics such as cephalosporin, levofloxacin or nafcillin normally will be given intravenously and other treatment will depend on the child's age and the infected body part. Cellulitis around the anus may be treated topically with mupirocin.

• 5

  Respond to severe cases by going to a hospital and receiving antibiotics intravenously. A hospital stay is sometimes required.