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Cellulitis Treatment Online

What is cellulitis?

Cellulitis is an infection, which occurs in the deeper levels of the skin and the skin’s underlying tissue. 

What causes cellulitis?

Cellulitis is a condition that occurs when bacteria or fungi travel through the surface of the skin into its deeper levels, which are called the dermis and the subcutis. This happens when the skin is damaged or broken, for example when it is cut, burnt or bitten.

If you suffer from eczema of have a fungal infection of the toenails or the foot then you may be more prone to developing cellulitis. This is because these conditions can cause small cracks to develop in the skin, which allow bacteria to enter.

If you have a weakened immune system, lymphoedema or use intravenous drugs then you may also be more prone to developing cellulitis.

What are the symptoms of cellulitis?

Skin, which is affected by cellulitis, will become red, warm, swollen and tender. As the infection becomes more severe you may find that you develop chills, a fever and swollen glands. In adults, cellulitis most commonly affects the skin on the legs, on the arms and on the face but can affect any part of the body.

In children, cellulitis most commonly affects the skin on the face and around the anus. Sometimes an infection on the face can lead to an infection of the eye, which can be dangerous, if left untreated.

Who is affected by cellulitis?

Anyone can be affected by cellulitis regardless of age or gender. The cases of cellulitis in the UK have increased 300 per cent over the past fifteen years.

How is cellulitis treated?

Cellulitis is treated with a course of oral antibiotics, and usually responds well, if it is diagnosed promptly and treated quickly.

In more severe cellulitis cases, the bacteria responsible for the primary infection may also cause a secondary infection somewhere else in the body, such as septicaemia. These severe infections will usually require the patient to be admitted into hospital for treatment with stronger antibiotics that are administered intravenously (directly into the vein).