Cellulitis is characterized as skin and tissue inflammation that is triggered by a bacterial infection. This condition typically affects the lower leg but can develop in any part of the body. The infection starts once bacteria enters the skin via a wound or an insect bite. Nevertheless, it can develop without any evident damage to the skin.
An individual with cellulitis can rapidly become sick and some might develop serious complications.
What are the indications of cellulitis?
The area affected by cellulitis is usually reddened, tender, painful, swollen and warm to the touch. This can be accompanied by other symptoms such as:
- Fever and chills
- Shaking or sweating
- Nausea
The area affected by cellulitis is usually reddened, tender, painful, swollen and warm to the touch. - Blisters or ulcers
- Feeling sick
- Enlarged lymph nodes
- Drainage of clear, yellowish or pus-like fluid
When to seek medical care
- The affected region is on the face
- Individual has a chronic condition or deteriorating immune system
- Sustained an animal or human bite
- Redness that radiates rapidly or significantly painful
Management
When managing cellulitis, it has 3 major factors – antibiotics, rest and elevation of the affected part. There might be a need to use pain medications. Some doctors might even provide anti-inflammatory medications or even steroids to be used for a short period of time.
The doctor will draw an outline on the site of cellulitis. This is used to determine if the area is getting bigger or smaller. Oftentimes, the type of antibiotic might be changed and even given intravenously in the hospital in severe cases.
Prevention
Cellulitis could not always be prevented, but the risk for the development of the condition can be reduced by avoiding any skin injuries and proper care of skin conditions such as eczema and tinea.
Those who are prone to cellulitis must take proper care in protecting themselves with long pants and gloves while gardening where the risk for getting scratched or bitten is high.
Even though cellulitis is not contagious, it is vital to wash hands before and after touching the infected area. This reduces the risk for spreading the infection further. Among those who had the condition more than 2-3 times, the use of antibiotics for extended periods of time can greatly help.