Cellulitis assessment,
in Muirend.
A free fifteen-minute appointment with our prescribing pharmacist. Assessment of the skin infection, advice, and treatment where clinically appropriate.
Funding
Free
Appointment
15 minutes
Suitable for
Adults 18+
Who this is for
This service is for adults aged 18 and over with symptoms of cellulitis — a hot, red, swollen area of skin, often on the lower leg, that is painful to touch. Eligibility is confirmed at assessment.
Common symptoms
- ·An area of skin that is red, warm, and swollen
- ·Pain or tenderness when the area is touched
- ·Skin that looks tight, shiny, or slightly blistered
- ·Symptoms most commonly on the lower leg, though any area can be affected
- ·Possibly a small cut, insect bite, or skin break where the infection entered
This service is suitable if you are
- ·Aged 18 or over
- ·Experiencing localised skin redness, warmth and swelling
- ·Within the first 5 days of symptoms
- ·Otherwise well — no fever, no shivering
This service is not suitable if you
- ·Are under 18 — go to your GP or NHS 24
- ·Have red lines spreading away from the affected area
- ·Have a fever or are shivering
- ·Feel generally unwell
- ·Have cellulitis on the face or around the eye
- ·Have diabetes, are immunocompromised, or are on chemotherapy
If you don't meet the eligibility criteria, we'll help you access the right care quickly.
What happens at your appointment
01
Book
Book online or call us. A short health check questionnaire will be sent to you to complete before your visit.
02
Arrive
Come to 521–523 Clarkston Road at your appointment time. A private consultation room is available.
03
Assessment
Our prescribing pharmacist examines the affected area, reviews your symptoms and health history, and assesses severity.
04
Next steps
Treatment is provided where clinically appropriate. If the infection needs further care, we refer you to your GP or A&E.
When not to use this service
Contact NHS 24 on 111, your GP, or go to A&E if you have any of the following:
- ·Fever or shivering
- ·Spreading redness — especially red lines moving away from the affected area
- ·Feeling generally unwell
- ·Cellulitis on the face or near the eye
- ·Symptoms not improving within 48 hours of starting treatment
Call 999 if you have signs of sepsis: severe confusion, fast breathing, severe pain, or a rash that does not fade when pressed.
Common questions
Do I need a GP referral? +
No. You can book directly with us — no GP referral or letter is required. If you meet the eligibility criteria, our prescribing pharmacist can assess you at a 15-minute appointment.
What should I bring to the appointment? +
It helps to bring a list of any medicines you currently take and details of any allergies. Please come with the affected area accessible for examination — for example, wearing loose clothing if the cellulitis is on the lower leg.
Will I definitely get treatment? +
Our pharmacist will carry out a clinical assessment first. Treatment is provided where clinically appropriate — this means it depends on what the assessment finds. We will always explain the outcome clearly and tell you what happens next.
What happens if treatment is not suitable? +
If your cellulitis is more severe than this service covers, or if you have features that need further investigation, our pharmacist will explain why and refer you promptly to your GP or advise you to attend A&E or contact NHS 24.
How quickly will I start to feel better? +
With appropriate treatment, cellulitis typically begins to improve within 48 to 72 hours. The redness may continue to spread slightly for the first 24 hours even after treatment begins — this is normal. If symptoms are not improving after 48 hours, contact us, your GP, or call NHS 24 on 111.
Other Pharmacy First Plus conditions
Clinically reviewed by
James McKeever
Superintendent Pharmacist · GPhC reg. 1042294
Last reviewed: 17 June 2026