What To Know About Cellulitis, It’s Causes And Symptoms

Infected skin with bacteria is called cellulitis, and it can lead to severe swelling and inflammation. When the skin is broken, bacteria are able to enter the body and cause infection. It hurts and feels hot to the touch.

While the lower legs are the most common site of infection for cellulitis, the face, arms, and elsewhere are not immune.

It's important to remember that if this problem isn't treated, the infection can spread to the lymph nodes and bloodstream, where it can quickly become fatal.

SYMPTOMS

The following are the cellulitis symptoms listed in the Mayo Clinic publication:

-A patch of skin irritation that grows in size over time

-Swelling

-Tenderness

-Pain\s-Warmth\s-Fever\s-Chills

-Spots

-Blisters

Diaper rash

CAUSES

Cellulitis develops when bacteria, most commonly streptococcus and staphylococcus, enter the body through a cut or scrape. This is most common in the legs, but can happen anywhere.

Recent surgical sites, cuts, puncture wounds, ulcers, athlete's foot, and dermatitis are all examples of places where bacteria are likely to gain entry to the body.

Factors that increase danger include: injury, immune system compromise, and skin disorders.

Arm or leg swelling that doesn't go away

Causes include: being overweight, a previous case of cellulitis, etc.

COMPLICATIONS

Toxic shock syndrome, sepsis, endocarditis, osteomyelitis, and septic shock are all possible complications of untreated cellulitis.

You should know that chronic swelling of the affected limb can be prevented by taking preventative measures, such as washing the wound with soap and water every day to avoid cellulitis.

Discuss the use of a barrier cream or ointment like Vaseline, polysporin, etc. with your doctor to see if it will help.

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You should put a bandage on the wound and change it frequently.

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Keep an eye out for any irritability, pain, pus, etc. that could indicate an infection.

Infections are potentially fatal if left untreated, so it's important to be on the lookout for symptoms and see a doctor quickly if you suspect you have one.

Source:

https://www.healthline.com/health/cellulitis

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/cellulitis/symptoms-causes/syc-20370762

https://fleekloaded.com/know-cellulitis-causes-symptoms

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