What Is Cellulitis ?

Cellulitis is a condition resulting from the bacterial infection of the skin caused by staph bacteria such as S.Aureus. The affected region is usually reddish in color and feels warm and soft to touch. In most people cellulitis is found to primarily affect the skin on the lower legs although it can also affect other areas as well uch as the face and body. Cellulitis is a serious condition and if not treated in time it can spread to other areas and turn deadly. It is therefore important to seek medical attention as soon as possible.

Symptoms:

Cellulitis is typically characterised by a red swelling of the skin that can be followed by fever, nausea and headache. Over a period of time tiny red coloured spots might also appear on the affected area.

Causes:

Cellulitis is typically caused by the S.Aureus bacteria which can enter through a breakage (or) opening in the skin. The breakage in the skin can occur due to animal bites, surgery, dry skin, injections, boils, puncture wounds, injections etc.

People At Risk :

1. Elderly People:

As people grow older their body's capability of delivering white blood cells to the various parts becomes reduced and as a result they are much more prone to a bacterial attack and a subsequent infection.

2. Fragile Immune System:

People who have sufferred from illnesses such as HIV and Leukaemia or people who are taking drugs that could suppress their immune system are also susceptible to develop a cellulitis infection.

3. Diabetic Patients:

Diabetes is known to weaken the human immune system as it can decrease the circulation of blood and WBC's (white blood cells) in the body thus making one prone to an infection. This decreased circulation of blood can cause ulcers in the foot which could serve as a point for bacteria to enter your skin.

4. Viral Diseases:

Blisters and tiny openings in the skin of a person resulting from common viral diseases like chickenpox and shingles can also serve as an entry point for cellulitis causing bacteria.

5. Other Risk Factors:

Various other causes such as swollen legs and feet as well as fungal infection of your feet can also lead to cellulitis of the bacteria penetrate through the skin.

Treatment:

Treatment of cellulitis infection typically involves the use of oral antibiotics if the person's condition is mild and not serious. Drugs like Flucloxacillin and Cephalexin can be effective in treating mild cellulite. If the infection does turn worse (or) if there ios no improvement with the administration of antibiotics the patient might be administered antibiotics directly into the veins instead.

Prevention:

Giving proper attention to your wound and taking certain simple steps to keep it clean can help prevent a cellulitis infection. Applying an antibiotic ointment, changing bandages regularly and washing the wound with soap and water can help prevent the onset of a cellulitis infection.