A cellulitis infection occurs when bacteria enter the body through a break in the skin and cause serious damage to the skin and its tissues. Cellulitis can affect any part of the body, but it is most common on the lower legs. Left untreated, cellulitis can spread to the lymph nodes and bloodstream, leading to life-threatening complications.
Staphylococcus and Streptococcus are usually responsible for cellulitis. In healthy people, these bacteria are normally found on their skin or in their nose and throat. However, they can cause infection when they enter the body through a wound, such as a cut, scrape, burn, insect bite, or surgical site.
Some factors that increase the risk of getting cellulitis are:
Having a skin condition that causes cracks or breaks in the skin, such as eczema, athlete’s foot, or shingles.
Having a weakened immune system due to conditions such as diabetes, leukemia, HIV/AIDS, or certain medications.
Having chronic swelling in the arms or legs (lymphedema) due to poor circulation or lymphatic system damage.
Being obese or overweight.
The symptoms of cellulitis may include:
A red, swollen, warm, and tender area of skin that may expand quickly.
A fever, chills, headache, fatigue, or muscle aches.
A skin sore or rash that may ooze pus or fluid.
Blisters, spots, or skin dimpling.
In some cases, cellulitis may cause more serious symptoms, such as:
Shaking or shivering.
Feeling ill or dizzy.
Red streaks on the skin that indicate the infection is spreading along the lymph vessels.
Tissue death or gangrene that causes the skin to turn black and fall off.
Your doctor will examine your skin and ask about your symptoms and medical history to diagnose cellulitis. Your doctor may also order some tests to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other conditions. These tests may include:
A blood test to check for signs of infection or inflammation.
A wound culture to identify the type of bacteria causing the infection.
An X-ray to look for foreign objects or bone damage under the skin.
A CT scan or MRI scan to determine the depth and extent of the infection.
The main treatment for cellulitis is antibiotics. Oral antibiotics are given to you by your doctor for 10 to 14 days. In some cases, you may need intravenous antibiotics given to you through an arm vein. Your medical history and the type of bacteria causing the infection determine the type of antibiotic you should take.
You can also take some steps to relieve your symptoms and speed up your recovery. These include:
Applying a warm compress to the affected area to reduce pain and swelling.
Elevating the affected limb above your heart level to improve blood flow and reduce swelling.
Wearing compression stockings or bandages to prevent fluid buildup in your legs.
Taking over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen to ease discomfort.
It is possible to prevent cellulitis by taking good care of your skin and avoiding injuries that can allow bacteria to enter your body. Some tips to prevent cellulitis include:
Washing your skin with soap and water regularly and keeping it moisturized.
Covering any cuts, scrapes, burns, or insect bites with clean bandages until they heal.
Avoiding walking barefoot outdoors or wearing shoes that are too tight or rub against your skin.
Treating any underlying conditions that affect your immune system or circulation.
Getting vaccinated against tetanus and other infections that can cause skin problems.
If you notice any signs of cellulitis on your skin, see your doctor right away. With proper treatment and prevention, you can avoid complications and recover from cellulitis.
