Disclaimer: This is general health information only and is not a substitute for advice from your GP or healthcare professional.
1. What is cellulitis?
Cellulitis is a bacterial infection of the skin and underlying tissues, causing redness, swelling, warmth, and pain. It commonly affects the lower legs but can occur anywhere on the body.
2. What causes cellulitis?
Cellulitis is usually caused by bacteria entering through a break in the skin, such as cuts, scratches, insect bites, ulcers, or surgical wounds. Streptococcus and Staphylococcus bacteria are the most common culprits.
3. What are the symptoms of cellulitis?
Symptoms include red, swollen, warm, and tender skin, sometimes with blisters, skin dimpling, or pus. Fever, chills, and fatigue may also occur in more severe infections.
4. How is cellulitis diagnosed?
Diagnosis is usually based on physical examination and medical history. Blood tests or imaging may be needed in severe or unusual cases to assess the extent of infection.
5. Is cellulitis serious?
Yes, cellulitis can become serious if untreated. Infections may spread rapidly to deeper tissues or the bloodstream, leading to sepsis, which is life-threatening. Prompt treatment is important.
6. How is cellulitis treated?
Cellulitis is treated with antibiotics, usually oral for mild cases and intravenous for severe cases. Elevation of the affected limb, pain relief, and monitoring are also important.
7. Can cellulitis be prevented?
Prevention includes keeping skin clean and moisturized, promptly treating cuts and wounds, avoiding scratching insect bites, and managing underlying conditions like diabetes or immune suppression.
8. When should I see a doctor?
See a doctor urgently if you have rapidly spreading redness, severe pain, swelling, fever, chills, or red streaks extending from the infection, as these may indicate a serious infection.
9. Can cellulitis recur?
Yes. People with recurrent skin injuries, compromised immunity, chronic swelling, or previous cellulitis are at higher risk of repeated episodes.
10. Are there complications from cellulitis?
Complications can include abscess formation, sepsis, tissue necrosis, chronic swelling, or permanent skin changes. Early treatment reduces the risk of complications.
