Cellulitis

Name: Cellulitis
SKU: 112
Price: 35.00 GBP
Availability: InStock

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Suspecting Cellulitis? Let us help you

What is Cellulitis?

Cellulitis is a common, potentially serious bacterial skin infection that affects the deeper layers of the skin, specifically the dermis and subcutaneous tissue. It occurs when bacteria, usually Streptococcus or Staphylococcus species, enter the skin through a break, such as a cut, scrape, or insect bite. Cellulitis can develop anywhere on the body, though it is most commonly found in the legs. It can affect people of all ages and genders, and it should be treated as soon as possible because it can lead to more significant health issues. If left untreated, cellulitis can spread rapidly, leading to more severe health issues, including infections of the bloodstream (sepsis) or the lymphatic system. Obesity, diabetes, poor circulation, and intravenous drug use are all factors that might raise your chances of developing cellulitis.

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What are the causes of Cellulitis?

A bacterial infection is the most common cause of cellulitis. Bacteria can enter your skin through a variety of routes, including wounds, grazes, and bites, as well as cracks created by other skin conditions like eczema. Cellulitis is nearly often treated with antibiotics because it is a bacterial illness. Early detection of the illness increases the likelihood of a successful antibiotic therapy.

A fungal infection can produce cellulitis in rare cases. This is only likely to occur if you have a weakened immune system, which can be caused by a variety of conditions.

What are the symptoms of Cellulitis?

The following are typical signs and symptoms:

Redness: The affected area of skin becomes red and inflamed.

Swelling: The skin in the affected area swells, often feeling tight.

Warmth: The area is warm or hot to the touch, indicating inflammation.

Pain and Tenderness: The area can be tender or painful.

Fever: In some cases, cellulitis can cause fever, chills, and general malaise.

Blisters: In severe cases, the affected area may develop blisters or pus-filled bumps.

Lymph Node Swelling: Nearby lymph nodes may become swollen and tender.

Is there treatment available for Cellulitis?

Treatment for cellulitis is essential to prevent the spread of infection and typically involves:

Antibiotics:

Oral Antibiotics: The first line of treatment usually involves oral antibiotics. Common choices include flucloxacillin or co-amoxiclav. Treatment typically lasts 7-14 days, depending on the severity of the infection.
Intravenous Antibiotics: In severe cases, or if oral antibiotics are ineffective, hospitalisation for intravenous (IV) antibiotics may be necessary.

Pain Relief:

Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or paracetamol can help manage pain and reduce fever.

Rest and Elevation:

Keeping the affected area elevated can help reduce swelling and alleviate discomfort.

Moisturizing and Protecting the Skin:

Using moisturisers to keep the skin hydrated and protecting any cuts or scrapes can help prevent recurrence.

Wound Care:

If there is an open wound, it may require cleaning and dressing to prevent further infection.

Treating Underlying Conditions:

Managing conditions like athlete’s foot or eczema can help prevent future episodes of cellulitis.

If you are unsure of diagnosis, our clinicians can diagnose and prescribe the most effective antibiotic, antibacterial washes and creams for your cellulitis and have the prescription sent to your local pharmacy for same day pickup. Please choose either the video or telephone consultation options. Please attach pictures if you choose the telephone consultation.

If you experience dizzy spells, a high fever, night sweats, palpitations, and vomiting, or if your skin redness has spread over a large area, this could mean your illness is spreading and the cellulitis can develop to more serious conditions, which include septicaemia (blood infection) or bacterial meningitis, then please go to A+E immediately.