cellulitis after diagnosis

Overview

Cellulitis is a bacterial skin infection that affects the deeper layers of your skin. It starts when bacteria get in through a cut, scratch, or other break in the skin. The skin becomes red, swollen, warm, and often painful. It usually appears on the lower legs but can affect any part of the body.

Yes, cellulitis is one of the more common skin infections. In the UK, it is a common reason people see their GP or go to hospital.

Anyone can get cellulitis, but it is more likely in people with diabetes, a weakened immune system, poor circulation, or a skin condition like athlete's foot. It also becomes more common with age.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Redness and swelling that gradually spreads
• Warm, tender, or painful skin
• A tight, shiny, or puffy area of skin
• Fever or feeling unwell
• Blisters, ulcers, or red streaks on the skin

Causes

Main causes

• Bacteria entering through a cut, scratch, bite, or surgical wound
• For example, group A streptococcus or staphylococcus bacteria
• A small crack in the skin from a fungal infection like athlete's foot
• Sometimes the point where bacteria got in is not clear

Risk factors

• Diabetes
• Poor circulation or swelling in the legs (lymphoedema)
• A weakened immune system from illness or medication
• Skin conditions such as eczema or psoriasis
• Obesity
• A history of cellulitis
• Repeated skin injuries from injecting drugs or other causes

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• Your symptoms are getting worse after starting treatment
• You have a high temperature or feel very unwell
• You notice the redness spreading quickly

Book a routine appointment if:

• You have completed your course of antibiotics but the area is still swollen or painful
• You have questions about how to care for your skin during recovery
• You want to discuss preventing future episodes

Diagnosis

A doctor will usually diagnose cellulitis by looking at the affected skin and asking about your symptoms. They may also feel the skin and check your temperature.

Tests that may be done

• Blood tests if the infection is severe
• A swab of any wound or blister to identify the bacteria
• Imaging such as an ultrasound, if the doctor needs to look for an abscess

What to expect at your appointment

Your doctor will probably prescribe antibiotics. You should notice less redness and pain within a day or two. If you have a mild infection, you will likely be cared for at home. If the infection is severe, you may need to be admitted to hospital.

Treatment

Cellulitis is treated with antibiotics. Most people take them by mouth at home. For more serious infections, antibiotics may be given through a drip in hospital. It is important to take the full course exactly as prescribed, even if you start feeling better.

Self-care at home

• Keep the affected area clean and dry.
• Rest and raise the infected limb to reduce swelling.
• Use a clean, cool, damp cloth to soothe the area if it feels very hot.
• Ask your pharmacist about safe pain relief options.
• Do not squeeze, pop, or break any blisters.

Medical treatments

Antibiotics are the main treatment. They may be given as tablets, capsules, or liquid. For more severe cellulitis, you may receive antibiotics through a drip while in hospital. Your doctor may also recommend regular monitoring of the affected area. Always finish the entire course, and do not stop early just because you feel better.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery is rarely needed for cellulitis. It is sometimes necessary to drain a collection of pus (abscess) that forms under the skin. In very rare cases, damaged skin may need to be removed. Your care team will explain if this applies to you.

Living with this condition

During the first few days, you may feel more tired than usual. Take it easy, keep the infected area raised, and follow your treatment plan. You can usually return to your normal routine once the infection settles, which may take several days.

Lifestyle tips

• Wear loose, comfortable clothing to avoid rubbing the sore area.
• Avoid swimming or soaking the area until it has healed.
• Check your skin regularly for cuts, cracks, or new signs of infection.
• Treat underlying skin problems like athlete's foot to prevent future episodes.
• If you have diabetes, keep your blood sugar in a good range and check your feet daily.

Diet and exercise

There is no special diet for cellulitis, but eating well and drinking plenty of fluids can help your body recover. Gentle movement, such as walking, is usually fine if you feel up to it. Avoid intense exercise that could injure the infected area.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

It is natural to feel worried or low while the infection is healing. The appearance of your skin may upset you, and that is ok. If you find it hard to sleep, concentrate, or feel constantly anxious, speak to your doctor or someone you trust.

Prevention

Not every case can be prevented, but you can lower your risk of future episodes by keeping your skin healthy. Moisturise dry skin, treat fungal infections quickly, and protect breaks with a clean dressing. If you have recurrent cellulitis, your doctor may discuss other ways to help prevent it.

Complications

If left untreated

• The infection can spread deeper into the skin and tissues
• It can cause an abscess (a painful pocket of pus)
• It can enter the bloodstream and make you very ill
• It may damage the lymphatic system, leading to long-term swelling (lymphoedema)

Long-term outlook

With prompt treatment, most people get better completely within a week or two. Some skin changes can last a few weeks, but they usually settle. Following the treatment plan and looking after your skin gives the best chance of a full recovery.

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