Advice Needed on Cellulitis Situation
I shared my experience last night regarding a possible cellulitis diagnosis due to insect bites. This morning, I visited my doctor and received a prescription for clarithromycin, to be taken twice daily. I’ve already consumed my first dose. The doctor advised me to mark the area with a line to monitor any changes in the redness, but he didn’t provide much guidance on what steps to take if the area does indeed expand. Since then, I've noticed an increase in pain, and the redness has spread approximately two inches up my leg. While I don’t have a fever, I feel quite unwell overall. I’ve come across information suggesting that it’s common for symptoms to worsen within the first 48 hours of starting treatment, but I’m concerned about the spreading redness and wondering if I should visit a walk-in clinic for further assessment. Currently, I’m applying ice to the affected area and keeping my foot elevated. A little about me: I’m a 33-year-old female taking metformin (2000 mg) for PCOS along with 50 mg of Elvanse. My weight is 79 kg, and I’m 5 feet 6 inches tall. I plan to share some images in the comments, but I haven’t drawn a second line yet due to heightened sensitivity and fatigue.
Answers (1)
7/1/2025, 2:40:41 PM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you’re dealing with a challenging situation regarding your cellulitis, and I can see why you're feeling concerned about the spreading redness and increasing pain. Here are the key points to consider:
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Monitor the Area: It’s essential to keep an eye on the redness and any changes in pain levels, as you’re currently doing. Since your doctor advised marking the area, this will help you track the spread effectively.
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Understand Treatment Response: It’s true that symptoms can sometimes seem to worsen in the first days of antibiotic treatment. However, it’s crucial to differentiate between normal treatment responses and a worsening infection.
Next Steps:
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Draw a New Line: Even with sensitivity and fatigue, try to draw a new line around the area of redness today, marking where the redness has spread. This will help you convey accurate information if you seek further care.
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Increase Pain and Symptoms Monitoring: Pay close attention to any new symptoms such as fever, chills, increased swelling, or a change in the color or warmth of the area. These can indicate that the infection is worsening.
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Ice and Elevation: Continue applying ice to the affected area to help reduce swelling and pain, but limit ice application to 15-20 minutes at a time. Keeping your foot elevated is also a good practice.
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Timing of Medical Attention: If the redness continues to expand beyond the line you marked, or if your pain significantly worsens, it’s advisable to seek medical care sooner rather than later—even if you don't have a fever. The increasing pain and well-being concerns warrant a revisit to your healthcare provider or a walk-in clinic for further evaluation.
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Stay Hydrated and Rest: Ensure you’re drinking plenty of fluids and resting as much as possible to support your body while it fights the infection.
Please keep a close eye on your symptoms, and don't hesitate to seek medical attention if you feel your situation is worsening. Your health and comfort are important, and it’s better to err on the side of caution. Expressing your concerns to a healthcare professional can provide you with peace of mind and necessary support.
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