Cellulitis is a type of bacterial skin infection that can escalate quickly if not cared for. It’s a common issue, affecting over 14.5 million people in the United States every year. The prognosis is positive, if you identify the infection and seek treatment before the infection spreads.
Identifying cellulitis starts with understanding what your skin typically looks like. With cellulitis comes a bevy of symptoms that range from redness, pain, and skin warmth to more severe symptoms such as nausea, blisters, fever, and delirium. If you begin experiencing any combination of those symptoms with skin redness, it is important to see your doctor before it escalates.
Treating the infection in the early stages can prevent you from experiencing more severe symptoms. Cellulitis is treated with antibiotics, as prescribed by your dermatologist as well as proper wound care.
Cellulitis is most often caused by the staph or strep bacteria, both of which can be resistant to certain antibiotics. Both of these bacteria live harmlessly on the skin, yet any break in the skin can open the door to infection. This includes anything from skin lacerations to bug bites. If you fail to clean the wound properly or have a weakened immune system, you are more likely to experience cellulitis.
Cellulitis responds well to treatment, especially if you seek medical care immediately. Within a few days of beginning an antibiotics regimen, symptoms should begin to clear up. If symptoms don’t start to get better, call your doctor’s office. If allowed to go untreated, cellulitis can become sepsis, in which the bacteria travels to the lymph nodes and bloodstream.
Seeking a reputable and trusted dermatological clinic is your key to preventing and treating potential cases of cellulitis. At Advanced Dermatology & Cosmetic Institute you will find a team of board certified dermatologists and physicians assistants prepared to help with your skin concerns including both medical and cosmetic options.
