How Long Does Cellulitis Take To Resolve?

Posted on Sat, 19 Mar 2016

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Sat, 19 Mar 2016 Answered on

Wed, 25 May 2016 Last reviewed on

Question : Thanks for the follow up.
She is being treated for cellulitis with ciprofloxin antibiotic for the last 2 weeks.
Blood work came fine.
The swelling has come down but not completely.
How long does it take for complete recovery?.

Answered by Dr. Ashwini Kolur (3 hours later)

Brief Answer:
duration depends on many factors, anywhere between 2 to 3 weeks

Detailed Answer:
Hi
Welcome.
I have gone through your query.
The information provided by you is very little.
It depends on many things like how severe was the infection, which part is affected, after care at hospital or at home, her immunity and whether she has any other illness etc.
It would be better if you can provide this information and also the pictures of the site will be helpful in assessing the situation.

In general when a proper care is taken it may take any where between two to three weeks. As you have mentioned that her blood work is fine and also the swelling is coming down, recovery should be faster.

Certain measures which will help to speed your recovery from cellulitis. Drink plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration. If your leg is affected by cellulitis, keep it raised whilst you are resting, using pillows or a chair. Maintain good hygiene, will be beneficial.

This provisional advice provided by me is based entirely on the input provided to me. I would suggest examination by the doctor.

I hope this suggestion might be of some help to you.
Take care.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Sonia Raina