Cellulite Infections

Cellulite infections or cellulitis is a common bacterial skin infection that can potentially be dangerous, if not treated properly. Cellulitis occurs when bacteria infects broken skin and spreads to the soft tissue under the skin. It appears as a swollen, red area of skin that is tender and has the ability to spread rapidly.

Symptoms

• There are a number of cellulitis symptoms, including redness of the skin, warmth, swelling, tenderness and sometimes pain. Pus may leak from the skin and large blisters may appear. These symptoms may also be accompanied by a fever.

Causes

• Cellulitis occurs when certain types of bacteria enter the body through cracks or breaks in the skin. The most common types of bacteria that cause cellulite infection are streptococcus and staphylococcus. Swollen skin, as well as dry, flaky skin, can serve as an entry point for these bacteria.

Risks

• The elderly and those with a weakened immune system have a greater risk of developing cellulite infections. Also, people who inject illicit drugs, diabetics and people who suffer from chronic fungal infection have more of a risk of bacterial infection.

Treatment

• Cellulite infection treatment usually involves a prescription oral antibiotic, such as cephalexin. You will need to take the antibiotic for 10 to 14 days, although signs and symptoms of cellulitis usually disappear after a couple of days.

Prevention

• If you have a skin wound, prevent cellulitis by washing the wound daily with soap and water and applying an antibiotic ointment. Cover the wound with a bandage and change it daily. Diabetics should keep skin moisturized and wear the appropriate footwear and gloves to protect the hands and feet and prevent wounds.