If the infection isn’t too bad, you can take antibiotics by mouth for a week to 14 days. Your doctor will schedule a follow-up appointment. Your doctor may use IV or intramuscular antibiotics if:
In serious cases, you may need to stay in the hospital. You’ll get IV antibiotics until the infection is under control (2 to 3 days), and then go home with oral medicines.
- The infection is severe.
- You have other medical problems.
- You are very young or very old.
- The cellulitis covers large areas, is on your hands, or is close to body parts like your eyes.
- The infection worsens even after taking antibiotics for 2 to 3 days.