What Is Cellulitis? Symptoms and Causes

It typically develops when bacteria enter the body through openings in the skin, such as a small cut, scratch, insect bite, or crack. While most common in the legs, it can also occur on the arms, hands, face, and other parts of the body.

What Causes Cellulitis?

The most common cause of cellulitis is bacteria reaching the subcutaneous tissue due to a breach in the skin's integrity. Factors that increase the risk of developing cellulitis include:

• Cuts, scrapes, or open wounds on the skin
• Insect or animal bites
• Burns
• Fungal infections
• Diabetes
• Circulatory disorders
• Lymphedema
• A weakened immune system
• Obesity

What Are the Symptoms of Cellulitis?

Cellulitis usually begins in a single area and can progress rapidly. The severity of symptoms may vary depending on the extent of the infection.

The most common symptoms include:

• Redness that spreads rapidly on the skin
• Swelling
• Pain and tenderness
• Increased warmth in the affected area
• Skin appearing tight and shiny
• Tenderness to the touch
• Fever
• Chills
• Fatigue
• Swollen lymph nodes nearby

How Is Cellulitis Diagnosed?

Diagnosis is usually made based on the patient's symptoms and a physical examination. The physician may request additional tests if necessary to assess the extent of the infection.

Methods that may be used include:

• Detailed physical examination
• Blood tests
• Laboratory tests to assess the severity of the infection
• Ultrasound if an abscess is suspected
• In rare cases, wound or blood cultures

Cellulitis Treatment

The treatment plan is determined based on the severity of the infection and the patient's overall health.

Antibiotic Treatment

To control the bacterial infection, the physician will prescribe appropriate antibiotics. Oral medication may be sufficient for mild cases, while more severe infections may require intravenous antibiotic treatment.

Pain and Fever Management

In case of pain or fever, appropriate medications may be used as recommended by a doctor.

Resting the Affected Area

For cellulitis occurring in the leg, keeping the affected limb elevated as much as possible can help reduce swelling.

Wound Care

If there is a wound or skin opening causing the infection, it must be properly dressed and cared for.

Managing Underlying Conditions

Treating conditions such as diabetes, circulatory disorders, or lymphedema supports the healing process and reduces the risk of recurrent infection.

What Happens If Cellulitis Is Left Untreated?

Untreated cellulitis can progress and lead to serious health complications. The infection may spread to surrounding tissues, lymph vessels, or the bloodstream.

• Abscess formation
• Infection of the lymph vessels
• Infection spreading to the bloodstream
• Recurrent cellulitis attacks
• Permanent lymphedema
• Tissue damage

How Can Cellulitis Be Prevented?

Some simple daily precautions can be taken to reduce the risk of cellulitis:

• Keep cuts and wounds on the skin clean.
• Reduce the risk of infection by properly covering wounds.
• Prevent skin cracking by moisturizing regularly.
• Treat skin infections like athlete's foot without delay.
• If you have diabetes, do not neglect your blood sugar control.
• Pay attention to personal hygiene.
• Consult a healthcare provider if you notice skin changes accompanied by swelling, redness, or fever.

It is recommended that you see a doctor without delay in the following situations:

• Rapid spread of redness
• Development of severe pain or significant swelling
• Fever above 38 °C
• Formation of pus or foul-smelling discharge
• Having diabetes or an immune system disorder
• Symptoms not improving or worsening despite antibiotic treatment