skin disorders
Cellulitis
Treatment of Cellulitis
Antibiotics Treatment of disorders that would make cellulitis worse Drainage of any abscesses Prompt treatment with antibiotics can prevent the bacterial infection from spreading rapidly and reaching the blood and internal organs. Antibiotics that are effective against both streptococci and staphylococci (such asdicloxacillinorcephalexin) are used. If doctors suspect methicillin-resistantStaphylococcus aureus(MRSA) infection, such as when pus is draining from under the skin, when other serious symptoms develop, or if MRSA is a common cause of cellulitis in the community, treatment may include antibiotics such astrimethoprimwith sulfamethoxazole,clindamycin, ordoxycyclineby mouth. People with mild cellulitis may take antibiotics by mouth. People with rapidly spreading cellulitis, high fever, or other evidence of serious infection or who have not been helped by the antibiotics taken by mouth are hospitalized and given antibiotics by vein. Also, the affected part of the body is kept immobile and elevated to help reduce swelling. Cool, wet dressings applied to the infected area may relieve discomfort. Disorders that increase a person's risk of developing cellulitis again (for example, Athlete's Foot (Tinea Pedis) ) are treated. Symptoms of cellulitis usually disappear after a few days of antibiotic therapy. When this release occurs, the body continues to react even though the bacteria are dead. Antibiotics may be continued for up to 10 days or sometimes longer for more severe infections. Skin Abscesses are cut open and drained. Compression stockings can help prevent repeat episodes of cellulitis in the legs. 