What Is Cellulitis?
Cellulitis is a common but potentially serious bacterial skin infection that affects the deeper layers of skin and the subcutaneous tissues. It occurs when bacteria enter through a break in the skin.
Key Symptoms
- Redness and warmth in the affected area
- Swelling and tenderness
- Skin that appears stretched or glossy
- Pain or soreness in the affected area
- Fever in some cases
- Potential spreading of redness over time
Risk Factors
- Breaks in the skin (cuts, scrapes, ulcers)
- Chronic skin conditions like eczema
- Compromised immune system
- Obesity
- Lymphedema
- History of cellulitis
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is primarily clinical, based on:
- Physical examination
- Medical history
- Blood tests (if necessary)
- Wound cultures in specific cases
Treatment Options
Primary Treatments
- Oral antibiotics for most cases
- Intravenous antibiotics for severe cases
- Rest and elevation of affected area
Supportive Care
- Pain management
- Proper wound care
- Cold compresses for comfort
Prevention
- Clean wounds promptly
- Moisturize skin to prevent cracking
- Treat underlying skin conditions
- Practice good hygiene
- Protect skin from injury
When to Seek Medical Care
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- Rapidly spreading redness
- Fever above 100.4°F (38°C)
- Severe pain
- Red streaks extending from the affected area
Complications
If left untreated, cellulitis can lead to:
- Deep tissue infection
- Sepsis
- Bone or joint infection
- Recurrent episodes
Recovery and Follow-up
- Complete all prescribed antibiotics
- Attend follow-up appointments
- Monitor for signs of recurrence
- Address underlying risk factors