Cellulitis is one of the common but potentially serious skin infection caused by bacteria. It causes redness and swelling on the affected area which may become tender and hot. This problem can spread easily to other parts causing serious complications. Very often cellulitis develops on the lower legs but it may occur on any other part also. Apart from infecting the skin’s upper layer, the bacteria will also attack the underlying tissues and even the lymph nodes. If left untreated for long, it can cause dangerous consequences and can be fatal.
Cellulitis Causes
The major cause for cellulitis infection is the staphylococcus and streptococcus bacteria. If there is any cut or wound in the skin, bacteria can easily gain entry causing infection and swelling.
Some of the risk factors that trigger bacterial attack are the presence of cracks on the toes, injury on the skin causing wounds or cuts, insect bites, animal bites and stings, history of peripheral vascular disease and prolonged use of corticosteroid medicines. Bacteria can enter into the skin through the cracks or breaks in the skin.
People who are operated recently are also under the risk of getting this infection if the wound is not properly covered and dressed. Do not expose the skin that is dry and flaky which may also trigger the bacterial attack.
Cellulitis Symptoms
Redness, pain and swelling are the major symptoms of cellulitis. The affected person may get fever and may feel warmth in the affected leg or toes. As time passes, the redness may rapidly spread to other parts of the leg and you can see tiny red spots on the skin layer. It would resemble small red blisters that are ready to burst. The skin may look as if it is stretched or glossy. You can find tiny blisters that may occur rapidly within few hours on the skin of the legs.