Should I See a Doctor Due to Blisters from Cellulitis After Starting Antibiotics?
I am a 22-year-old female, weighing about 125 pounds and standing at 5'3" tall. On Friday, I received a diagnosis of cellulitis in my right leg. Following this, I began a prescribed course of antibiotics right away. However, last night I discovered several small vesicles on my leg that seem to be filled with fluid, likely pus. This morning, I observed that the blisters have increased in number but are still localized to the affected leg. Should I schedule a follow-up appointment with my doctor, or is this a typical response?
Answers (1)
7/7/2025, 12:30:51 PM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to be concerned about new symptoms, especially after starting antibiotics for cellulitis. The appearance of blisters on the affected leg can sometimes occur, but it's important to assess this situation carefully.
Main Points:
- Blisters can be a reaction to the infection or the treatment.
- Monitoring the symptoms is crucial while considering a follow-up.
Explanation:
Cellulitis is an infection of the skin and underlying tissues, and antibiotics are used to treat it. The presence of small fluid-filled blisters (vesicles) can result from the inflammatory response to the infection or could indicate that the cellulitis isn’t responding as hoped. In many cases, treatment leads to improvement, but the appearance of new lesions after starting antibiotics warrants further attention.
Next Steps:
-
Monitor Additional Symptoms: Keep an eye on your leg for worsening symptoms such as increased redness, swelling, warmth, or if you develop fever, chills, or increased pain. These could indicate that the infection is not improving.
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Maintain Hygiene: Keep the area clean and dry. Avoid popping the blisters, as this can lead to further infection.
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Document Changes: Take note of any changes in the blisters, like size, number, or any associated symptoms (like fever), as this information will be useful for your doctor.
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Schedule Follow-Up: Since blisters are not a typical response, it’s wise to reach out to your healthcare provider, either to schedule a follow-up or to at least discuss your current symptoms over the phone for guidance.
Lastly, remember that it’s always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to infections. Make sure to reach out to your provider soon.
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