Version July 2025
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What are discharge instructions? —
Discharge instructions are information about how to take care of yourself after getting medical care in the emergency department ("ED").
What should I know? —
You came to the ED for preseptal cellulitis, also sometimes called "periorbital" cellulitis. This is a skin infection of the eyelid. The infection is caused by bacteria.
Your eyelid might be swollen, or the skin of your eyelid might be red or darker than usual. You might also have pain in that eye.
The doctors probably gave you antibiotics. If so, it is very important to finish them, even if you start to feel better.
How do I care for myself at home? —
Ask the doctor or nurse what you should do when you go home. Make sure you understand exactly what you need to do to care for yourself. Ask questions if there is anything you do not understand.
You should also do the following:
●Call your regular doctor and tell them you were in the ED. Make a follow-up appointment if you were told to. You might also need to follow up with an eye doctor.
●Avoid squeezing, scratching, or rubbing the affected eye or area around the eye.
●Keep the infected area clean and dry. You can gently wash the skin around your eye with soap and water, or take a shower. Pat the area dry with a clean towel.
●Wash your hands before and after you touch the infected area. However, someone else cannot catch your cellulitis.
●Do not put an antibiotic ointment or cream on the area.
When should I get emergency help?
●Return to the ED if:
•You have a fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher, or chills.
•Your vision gets worse, or you start to see double.
•You have new or worsening pain around your eye, especially pain when you move your eyes.
•The area becomes more red, swollen, or painful, or the redness or swelling spreads to a larger area.
•Your eye drains pus.
•You become weak or confused.
When should I call the doctor? —
Call for advice if:
●You have a new or worsening headache.
●The infected area is not better after 2 days of taking antibiotics.
●You have new or worsening symptoms.
Patient education: Cellulitis around the eye (The Basics)
Patient education: Cellulitis and erysipelas (skin infections) (The Basics)
Patient education: Skin and soft tissue infection (cellulitis) (Beyond the Basics)
