Cellulitis is the most common infection in humans, caused by Streptococcus or Staphylococcus germs on the skin. Because these bacteria can enter the skin through minute gaps (fissures), they can cause the skin to become flushed with redness, swelling, and warmth all at the same time. Cellulitis can be accompanied by symptoms such as fever, chills, and overall weariness in some cases.
Possibly cellulitis can result in pus pockets (abscesses). That bacteria will travel into the bloodstream if the infection is not treated promptly (bacteremia). The majority of cases of cellulitis, on the other hand, are resolved with appropriate antibiotic therapy.
Who gets cellulitis, and how do they acquire it?
Cellulitis may affect anybody, even children. Cellulitis is usually caused by a wound such as a cut, ulcer, animal bite, or surgical site.
What is the cause of cellulitis?
Bacteria may cause cellulitis in a variety of ways. Group A streptococci and S. aureus are the most frequent organisms. A mixture of microorganisms frequently causes cellulitis that develops as a result of a persistent ulcer. Cellulitis generally develops in regions of the skin that have been injured or irritated due to a variety of factors, such as:
- Insect bites, burns, abrasions, and cuts are examples of trauma.
- an incision made during surgery
- Eczema, psoriasis, scabies, and acne are all skin disorders.
- metal or glass embedded in the skin
A reason for cellulitis is frequently impossible to determine.
How can you treat Cellulitis?
Getting treatment for cellulitis is critical if you have been diagnosed with the disease. Treatments can prevent cellulitis from worsening. Avoiding serious medical problems such as blood poisoning and severe pain is a good thing to do.
Cellulitis can be treated with the following medications:
- Antibiotics:
- A cellulitis infection can be cleared up with the help of an oral antibiotic (which you swallow).
- Depending on your condition, you may require a different type of antibiotic and a longer period. For the most part, people only need to take antibiotics for seven to fourteen days. The antibiotic may need to be taken for a longer period if your immune system is weak.
- Antibiotics are sometimes required for some people who require multiple types.
- Antibiotics are sometimes administered intravenously (IV). An inpatient hospital stay is frequently recommended in these situations. Serious cellulitis, such as on the face, may benefit from this treatment.
- Wound Caring:
Cellulitis wound care is critical in the treatment of the infection. Skin protection will aid in the healing process. If you require special wound coverings or dressings, you will be instructed to apply and change them.
- Taking Rest:
Rest is important in preventing cellulitis from becoming serious and aiding the body’s healing process after it occurs.
- Leg Elevation:
Keeping the affected leg elevated can help to reduce swelling and speed the healing process if you have cellulitis in your leg.
If the bacteria entered your body as a result of another skin condition, such as athlete’s foot, it is critical that you treat that condition as well as the bacteria.
