Skin disorder 101: What is cellulitis?

Cellulitis is a pretty common skin infection, especially in people with weaker immune systems or certain health conditions. It usually starts as a painful, red, and swollen patch of skin—often warm to the touch. That’s because the infection reaches the deeper layers of your skin through a cut, scrape, or any small break. And once it gets in, it spreads fast, so getting it treated early is really important.

Most of the time, cellulitis is caused by group A streptococcus bacteria—the same kind that causes strep throat. But other bacteria like Staphylococcus aureus (linked to toxic shock syndrome) and even E. coli (known for causing UTIs) can be behind it too.

You’ll usually notice symptoms within a few days of the bacteria entering the skin. At first, the area might feel tender and warm. If it spreads, it can cause a fever, swollen glands, and more severe pain where the infection is. So, if something doesn’t feel right, it’s best to get it checked sooner rather than later.

Source: JAMA Dermatology

Symptoms of cellulitis

The signs of infection due to cellulitis vary depending on the type of bacteria that caused it. They may appear suddenly or slowly develop. Here, below, are the common symptoms of cellulitis:

• Warmth or redness to the skin
• Painful and swollen skin due to enlarged lymph nodes
• Skin rashes
• Pain
• Tenderness at the infected site

Additional symptoms include fever, blisters or skin lesions on the legs, headache, fatigue, chills and weakness. Cellulitis does not usually cause people any long-term harm, although it can sometimes spread around your body.

Causes of cellulitis

Let’s dive into what causes cellulitis and why it can happen in the first place.

While not every skin infection spreads from person to person, cellulitis can in some cases. One possible trigger is a scabies infestation. Scratching itchy scabies bites or sharing things like bedding or clothing with someone who has scabies can introduce bacteria into your skin, leading to cellulitis.

Other times, cellulitis can be brought on by things like radiation therapy or steroid injections near the area that becomes infected. Insect bites can also play a role—especially in little ones, who might scratch at bites on their face and end up with facial cellulitis.

A few other things can raise your risk:

• Skin ulcers

• Dry skin or conditions like eczema

• A weakened immune system

• Obesity

• Lymphoedema or diabetes (these can lead to secondary infections)

As a heads-up, cellulitis can get serious fast—especially if the infection goes deep into the body. When that happens, it can spread throughout the system and turn into something called cellulitis sepsis, which is a medical emergency.

Complications and long-term effects of cellulitis

Now that we’ve covered the causes, let’s talk about what can happen if cellulitis isn’t properly treated.

Complications to watch for:

• Abscesses: These are painful, pus-filled pockets that may need to be drained.

• Bacteremia: If the bacteria enter your bloodstream, it can lead to a serious condition called sepsis.

• Lymphangitis: This is when red streaks form and spread from the infected area towards your lymph nodes. It means the infection is getting worse and needs immediate attention.

• Recurring cellulitis: People with diabetes or chronic swelling may get cellulitis more than once, which can cause long-term damage.

Long-term effects can include:

• Chronic swelling: The area may stay swollen for a long time, limiting movement or comfort.

• Skin changes: Over time, the skin may thicken, scar, or change colour.

• Lymphedema: If the lymph system is damaged, it can cause ongoing swelling.

• Mental health effects: Repeated infections and ongoing discomfort can impact your mood and wellbeing.

Catching cellulitis early can prevent most of these problems, so let’s look at how to avoid them.

Preventing complications and long-term effects

If you’ve had cellulitis—or want to lower your risk—there are simple but important steps you can take:

• See a doctor early: Don’t wait if you spot signs of infection. Early treatment can stop things from getting worse.

• Finish all antibiotics: Even if you feel better, keep taking your meds until they’re gone.

• Look after wounds: Clean any cuts or bites, and cover them with a clean dressing.

• Manage health conditions: Keeping diabetes or swelling under control lowers your risk of cellulitis.

• Stay healthy overall: Eating well, staying active and avoiding smoking can all support your immune system.

These tips don’t guarantee prevention, but they go a long way in protecting your skin and health.

Diagnosis and medical treatment of cellulitis

Getting the right diagnosis is key to treating cellulitis properly.

Doctors usually start by checking your symptoms and medical history. If your skin is red, swollen, tender, and warm, that’s a red flag for cellulitis. Sometimes, the area may also blister or start oozing.

Tests that might be done:

• Blood cultures: To check if the bacteria have reached your bloodstream.

• Wound swab: If there’s fluid, it can help identify the exact bacteria.

• Imaging scans: In more serious cases, doctors might order a scan to see if the infection has spread deeper.

Treatment options:

• Antibiotics: Usually oral for mild cases, or IV for more serious ones. It’s important to finish the whole course.

• Elevating the area: Helps bring down swelling.

• Pain relief: Over-the-counter meds can help ease discomfort.

• Wound care: Keeping the area clean and covered prevents further infection.

• Follow-up visits: These ensure the infection is healing as it should.

In more severe cases, a hospital stay might be needed for intensive care.

Natural treatment for cellulitis

While antibiotics are the go-to for cellulitis, some people prefer exploring natural remedies—especially alongside medical treatment.

A few natural options include:

• Tea tree oil: Research suggests it may help fight MRSA, a bacteria that can cause cellulitis. Always dilute it before use.

• Liver cleanses: Though more anecdotal, some people use cleanses to help their body fight off infections.

• Vitamin C: This antioxidant supports your immune system. Try to eat plenty of citrus fruits, capsicum, and even potatoes. A nutritionist can help if you need supplements.

Natural remedies may offer some support, but they’re not a replacement for proper treatment. Always speak to your GP or a qualified practitioner before trying anything new.

Prevention of cellulitis

So how do you stop cellulitis from happening in the first place? It mostly comes down to good skin care.

• Keep skin clean and protected: Especially after cuts, scrapes or bites.

• Don’t ignore small wounds: Even a minor nick can let bacteria in.

• Be cautious when swimming: Make sure there are no open wounds before going in public pools or natural water sources.

• Watch for recurring signs: If you’ve had cellulitis before, stay on top of any symptoms returning.

It’s easy to think of cellulitis as something that only affects people with other health issues, but even healthy individuals can get it. The key is acting quickly when something doesn’t look or feel right.

Self-care tips at home to manage cellulitis

Along with medical treatment, there are a few things you can do at home to ease symptoms and help your body heal:

1. Keep the area elevated: Helps reduce swelling.

2. Clean the area gently: Use mild soap and water, and dry with a soft towel.

3. Use warm compresses: These can help reduce discomfort and inflammation.

4. Take pain relief if needed: Like paracetamol or ibuprofen (check with your doctor first).

5. Rest: Give your body time to recover.

6. Don’t scratch or pick: It can make the infection worse.

7. Stay hydrated: Water helps your body flush out toxins.

8. Wear loose clothing: Tight clothes can irritate the skin.

9. Monitor for new symptoms: Let your doctor know if things change.

10. Stick to your treatment plan: Follow all your doctor’s instructions to the letter.

A bit of home care can go a long way in helping cellulitis heal smoothly. But if things don’t improve or you start feeling worse, don’t wait—reach out to a healthcare provider straight away.

Wrapping it up

Cellulitis might be common, but that doesn’t mean it should be taken lightly. With early recognition, proper medical treatment, and a few self-care practices, most people recover well without complications. Whether you’re looking to manage a current infection or prevent future ones, taking care of your skin and overall health is key.

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