Cellulitis

What Is Cellultis?

Cellulitis is a bacterial infection of the skin. It can be very dangerous if it is not treated. It generally appears on the skin and lower legs around the shins and ankles, but has been known to appear on various all parts of the body. Cellulitis appears as a red, hot area on the skin. The area may be very tender to the touch. Once it appears, cellulites can spread very rapidly. These red areas are also generally accompanied by a high fever. Cellulitis is in no way associated with cellulite. This is a very common misperception.

What Causes Cellulitis?

Cellulitis is the result of bacteria entering your body through cracks in your skin. This can be anywhere you have a puncture wound, recent areas you have had surgery on, an ulcer, or athlete’s foot. To prevent bacteria from entering, mach sure wounds are properly treated.  as well as seeking treatment for athlete’s foot from a doctor if an over the counter product isn’t resolving it. Occasionally a spider or insect bite can lead to Cellulitis as can extremely dry skin.

Risk Factors That Can Cause Cellulitis

There are some factors that increase a person’s risk of contracting Cellulitis. As you get older, your circulation can slow down. This can allow Cellulitis to appear in areas of your body where your circulation is poor. Illnesses that drain your immune system can leave your body more susceptible to the effects of Cellulitis. Since diabetes can affect both your circulation and your immune system, it is not uncommon for individuals with diabetes to experience Cellulitis. Reoccurring fungus infections on your feet can also be a breeding ground for Cellulitis. Extremely obese individuals are often at a very high risk. Cellulitis has also been known to enter the body through sores caused by chickenpox.

Dangers Of Cellulitis

There are varying degrees of cellulites. Some people only get it on the surface of their skin. For others, it goes also attacks their tissue. Once here, it can spread to the lymph nodes and the bloodstream. Left untreated, severe Cellulitis can result in death. Since it is difficult to determine if the case you have is superficial or extreme, it is recommended that you consult a doctor immediately. Cellulitis is often difficult to diagnose. Many doctors will conduct blood tests to make sure your symptoms aren’t the result of a blood clot that has formed in the veins of your leg.

Prevention Of Cellulitis

Washing thoroughly with soap and water will greatly reduce your risk of contracting Cellulitis. If you have any open wounds, apply an antibiotic cream then cover with a sterile dressing. Make sure you change the dressing often, especially if the sore is oozing pus. Watch open wounds, cuts and sores closely. If they become inflamed, develop an odor, or don’t start to heal you will want to seek medical attention as these could be signed of an infection.

Treatment Of Cellultis

Cellulitis is most often treated with a powerful antibiotic that should be taken orally for at least 10 days. The symptoms of Cellulitis will likely start to clear up within two or three days. However, it is very important to take the entire dosage of antibiotics as prescribed as well as follow up with your doctor in the time they specify.

Bookmarks
Bookmark This |