Cellulitus

What is cellulitis?

Cellulitis is a common bacterial skin infection that can affect any area of the body but most often occurs in the legs or arms. Sometimes, it can even penetrate the muscle beneath the skin. It occurs when bacteria enter through a break in the skin, such as a cut, scrape, or insect bite.

Seeking care for cellulitis is essential to prevent the infection from spreading. Without proper treatment, the condition can be painful and difficult to resolve.

What does cellulitis look like?

Cellulitis appears red, swollen, and warm to the touch. The affected area may feel tender, and the redness often expands and spreads to other areas as the infection progresses. In some cases, there may be a distinct border between the infected area and the surrounding skin.

Some individuals experience pitted skin that resembles an orange peel. Blisters, fever, and chills can also develop when the condition remains untreated.

Is cellulitis dangerous?

Cellulitis can be dangerous once it spreads. The bacterial infection can enter your bloodstream, 

potentially leading to a serious and life-threatening condition called sepsis. Immediate medical attention is crucial to prevent cellulitis from progressing. 

If left untreated, the infection may cause complications such as abscess formation or tissue death. Cellulitis can also spread to other vital organs, like the heart or lungs.

What causes cellulitis?

Cellulitis primarily enters your body through breaks in the skin. While anybody can get it, certain people are at an increased risk, including people with:

• Chronic skin conditions (eczema, psoriasis, etc.)
• Tattoos, piercings, ulcers, and puncture wounds
• Peripheral vascular disease (PAD)
• Older age
• Lymphedema
• Intravenous drug use
• Excess weight

Streptococcus and Staphylococcus bacteria, including Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), are common culprits of cellulitis.

What are the treatments for cellulitis?

Skin Care Specialists takes a personalized approach to cellulitis treatment that involves customized care. Treatments may include:

• Topical or oral antibiotics
• Warm compress
• Rest and elevation
• Hydration
• Proper wound care
• Surgical drainage

Managing underlying health conditions that increase your risk of cellulitis is also key to preventing recurrences.

Call Skin Care Specialists today or use the online booking tool to schedule an appointment.