Cellulitis of the eye

• Take your antibiotics as directed. Do not stop taking them just because you feel better. You need to take the full course of antibiotics.
• Do not wear contact lenses unless your doctor tells you it is okay.
• Prop up your head on pillows, and put a cool, damp cloth on your eye. This can reduce swelling and pain.
• If your doctor recommends it, use a warm pack on your eye.
• Keep the skin around your eye clean and dry.
• Be safe with medicines. Read and follow all instructions on the label.
  • If the doctor gave you a prescription medicine for pain, take it as prescribed.
  • If you are not taking a prescription pain medicine, ask your doctor if you can take an over-the-counter medicine.

To prevent cellulitis

• Wash your hands well after you use the bathroom and before and after you eat.
• Do not rub or pick at the skin around your eyes. Cellulitis occurs most often where there is a break in the skin.
• If you get a cut, pimple, or insect bite near your eye, clean the area as soon as you can. This can help prevent an infection.
  • Wash the area with cool water and a mild soap, such as Ivory.
  • Do not use rubbing alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, iodine, or Mercurochrome. These can harm the tissues and slow healing.
• Call your doctor if you have a sinus infection with redness or swelling of your eyes.