What is cellulitis?

Cellulitis is a bacterial skin infection that affects the upper layers of the skin, irritating and inflaming them. Despite the fact that they are similar in name, this condition has nothing to do with common cellulite. It generally affects the area on the lower legs, though it can occur anywhere on the body, even on the face.

What are the symptoms of cellulitis?

There are a handful of cellulitis symptoms. The main ones are:

• fever, chills, and sweats
• pain, inflammation, and warmth in the affected area
• skin hardening and the skin appearing tight, or ‘glossy’
• an eruption on the skin, with a pus-filled abscess
• a rapidly growing rash or skin sore

Other more serious symptoms that appear less frequently are stiffness, difficulty moving the joints, or hair loss in the affected area. Contact your doctor immediately if any of the following occur as it can indicate that the cellulitis is spreading:

• lethargy
• blistering
• feeling drowsy
• red streaks

Cellulitis can be serious if it is not quickly treated.

What are the causes of cellulitis?

Cellulitis originates from an infection normally caused by the genus streptococcus or staphylococcus bacteria, which is spread by touching any object or living being hosting these micro-organisms. Those more at risk include those who have:

• a compromised immune system
• superficial wounds on the body due to injury, stings, or insect bites
• ulcers

Can cellulitis be prevented?

You can reduce the chances of cellulitis occurring or re-occurring by keeping your skin clean and well-moisturised, as well as by keeping any cuts or scrapes you have clean, and by using antiseptic.

How is cellulitis treated?

Cellulitis must be treated quickly as the infection can spread into the bloodstream. The treatment is based mainly on taking antibiotics for about 10 days.

What are some effective home remedies to treat cellulitis?

At home, you can help with recovery by following measures such as elevating the affected body part (e.g on a chair), drinking plenty of fluids, and by taking over-the-counter painkillers to help with any pain you might be feeling.

Which specialist treats cellulitis?

Dermatologists are the specialists that treat cellulitis. 

When is cellulitis considered a medical emergency?

Patients should visit an accident and emergency department as soon as possible if they notice that their skin is hot, painful, and swollen. Patients are also encouraged to visit A&E immediately if they have cellulitis and notice any of the following:

• fast breathing and fast heartbeat
• purple patches on skin
• a feeling of dizziness or being faint
• confusion or disorientation
• cold, pale, or clammy skin
• loss of consciousness
• high temperature, or a feeling of being hot and shivery

These can also be symptoms of sepsis.

In the case of cellulitis, what should I avoid doing?

Patients who have been diagnosed with cellulitis should avoid scratching their skin, keeping their nails short, and walking barefoot in areas where injury to the foot could occur. They should also never ignore the appearance of small cracks in the skin, or any cuts or insect bites. 

Can cellulitis be life-threatening?

Yes, unfortunately, cellulitis can indeed be life-threatening if it not treated promptly. It becomes life-threatening when it gets into one's bloodstream. 

How is it diagnosed?

Clear signs and symptoms of cellulitis wil typically be enough to diagnose the condition when they are presented and described to a dermatologist. Blood tests can be carried out to determine whether or not cellulitis is present in the patient's bloodstream.