Cellulitis
What is Cellulitis?
Cellulitis is an infection that affects not just the surface of the skin but the deeper layers and surrounding tissue. It is most commonly seen in the legs but can occur in any area of the body. Unlike other skin conditions, such as abscesses or rashes, cellulitis can be a severe problem that requires medical attention.
Cellulitis can occur in people of any age or gender and should not be ignored. If left untreated, it can lead to more severe health complications. Taking prompt action and providing you with the best treatment options for your cellulitis is our doctors' top priority.
Cellulitis Symptoms
Here are the common symptoms of cellulitis:
- Swollen skin
- Pain in the affected area
- Inflamed, reddish, and warm-to-touch skin
- Blisters
- A nauseous sensation
- Fever
If left untreated, cellulitis can lead to severe complications, including septicaemia (a serious infection of the bloodstream) and bacterial meningitis (a condition of the tissues surrounding the brain and spinal cord).
If you are feeling lightheaded, have a fever above normal, your heart is racing, and you feel nauseous, or if the redness on your skin has increased significantly, you should seek medical attention immediately. This could mean that the infection is becoming more serious.
- Palpitations
- Vomiting
- High persistent fever
- Dizziness spells
- Redness that spreads over a wide area of your skin
Cellulitis Causes
Cellulitis is typically the result of a bacterial infection. Bacterial entry into the skin can occur from wounds, scratches, insect bites, or any other skin condition, such as eczema that causes breaks in the skin.
In some rare cases, if you have a weakened immune system due to other illnesses, you may be more susceptible to cellulitis caused by a fungal infection.
Those who are obese, diabetic, have poor circulation or are intravenous drug users are at a higher risk of developing cellulitis.
Fungal infections can also lead to cellulitis, though such cases are rare and are typically attributed to a weakened immune system.
You have a greater chance of contracting cellulitis if you are:
- Obese or overweight
- Have illnesses related to poor blood circulation
- Diabetic
- Uses intravenous drugs frequently
Cellulitis Treatment
Antibiotics are commonly prescribed to treat cellulitis, as bacteria often cause the condition. However, these treatment suggestions work well in conjunction with antibiotic therapy:
- Resting and elevating the affected limb as often as you can
- Taking pain medications to help ease discomfort caused by the inflamed skin
- Keeping yourself hydrated with water and healthy fluids
- Avoid further injury, such as cuts to your skin
- Performing gentle exercises to the affected limb once in a while to promote circulation
It is essential to seek medical attention if you experience any new symptoms. Early diagnosis of the condition can increase the likelihood of a successful and speedy recovery with antibiotic treatment.
At Mobi Doctor, our medical professionals can provide the best antibiotic to treat your cellulitis and arrange for it to be delivered to a pharmacy near you.