Common symptoms
What people often notice. Only a provider can tell you what’s causing yours.
- An area of red or darker skin that is growing
- Swelling and tightness
- Warmth when you touch the area
- Pain or tenderness
- Skin that looks shiny or dimpled
Skin
Cellulitis: virtual care options
Cellulitis is a bacterial infection of the deeper layers of skin, often starting from a break in the skin like a cut, bite, or crack. It usually affects the lower legs and can spread quickly, so it should be looked at promptly.
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What a virtual visit may involve
Care is decided by the provider, based on your situation.
- A video or online visit where a licensed provider asks about how the area started and your health history
- Sharing photos, and sometimes marking the edge of the redness with a pen to track changes
- A provider may prescribe treatment if appropriate, or direct you to in-person care
- Close follow-up guidance, since cellulitis should start improving soon after treatment
When in-person care may be better
Urgent care, your doctor, or a clinic can examine and test you.
- The affected area is on your face, near your eye, or on your hand
- You have diabetes, poor circulation, or a weakened immune system
- The redness keeps growing after you start treatment
- There is a painful lump that may need to be drained
When to go to the ER
Call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room if you have:
- Fever, chills, or shaking
- Redness spreading quickly or red streaks extending from the area
- Severe pain, numbness, or skin turning dark, purple, or blistered
- Swelling around the eye or trouble moving the eye
- Dizziness, confusion, or a racing heartbeat
Ready to explore a virtual visit for Cellulitis?
Check availability, pricing, and care details directly with the provider. You’ll leave ER.com when you continue.
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Common questions
Cellulitis, answered.
General information, not medical advice. A provider can answer questions about your situation.
Can cellulitis be treated online?
Early, mild cellulitis can sometimes be evaluated in a virtual visit with photos. A provider may prescribe treatment if appropriate, but many cases need an in-person exam, and signs like fever or rapid spread need the ER.
How fast does cellulitis spread?
Cellulitis can spread over hours to days. Marking the edge of the redness with a pen helps you and your provider see whether it is growing.
Is cellulitis contagious?
Cellulitis is not usually spread from person to person, because the infection is in the deeper skin layers. Open wounds should still be kept clean and covered.
This is not for emergencies.
For life-threatening symptoms, severe chest pain, trouble breathing, or immediate danger, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department.