Cellulitis of the Legs

Cellulitis is a bacterial infection, which causes inflammation of the superficial layers of the skin as well as the connective tissues beneath it. (Cellulitis is often confused with cellulite (dimpling of the skin), but both are different, as the disease has nothing to do with the cosmetic condition called cellulite.) In some severe cases, the infection may also spread to the lymph nodes. It can affect people of all ages and can appear on any part of the body. However, the most common sites for cellulitis are hands, legs, feet, arms and face. Cellulitis can be caused by the bacteria, which is normally present in the human body or exogenous bacteria. It has been observed that this skin infection commonly occurs at those sites, where the skin has been broken previously. This includes wounds, burns, insect bites, tattoos, athlete's foot, animal bites, surgical wounds, skin rash, dry skin, etc.

Leg Cellulitis Symptoms and Causes

Cellulitis of the legs symptoms include pain and tenderness in the affected area. The area of infection can be red and swollen and the skin, warm to touch. The affected person may also develop fever and chills. Physical examination of the affected area is considered as the most reliable method to diagnose cellulitis. In its earlier stages, cellulitis manifests itself in the form of skin rash, which may cause itching and the rash may disappear leaving a small mark. However, severe forms of cellulitis cause permanent rashes, which are red and swollen. This happens when the deeper layers of the skin are severely infected. Once, they gain entry to the deeper skin layers, the bacteria spread rapidly and enter the bloodstream, lymph nodes and other body parts, leading to complications. Cellulitis of the lower legs is often confused with deep vein thrombosis, as the symptoms of both conditions resemble each other.

Cellulitis is caused by bacteria, which can either be those present in the human body or the exogenous ones. These bacteria enter through the cuts or cracks in the skin and cause infection. Poor hygiene can also be a contributing factor for cellulitis. The most common among them is A streptococcus, which is commonly found on the human skin and in the throat. In normal conditions, these bacteria do not cause any harm, but, as favorable conditions develop, they can cause infection. Favorable conditions include any cracks, or breaks in the skin and some physical and medical conditions, like, diabetes, pregnancy, obesity, etc. Cellulitis can also be caused by Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus), which is found on the skin and the mucous membranes. In kids, the most common cause of cellulitis is Haemophilus influenzae type B, which can lead to serious infections. It has been observed that people with diabetes, immune system disorders or a weak immune system as also obese or aged people, those with eczema, psoriasis, lymphedema, skin ulcer, HIV/AIDS, etc., are more prone to cellulitis of the legs.

Leg Cellulitis Treatment

Cellulitis of the legs treatment is mostly done with oral antibiotics that fight the bacteria. Apart from that, the leg cellulitis treatment involves resting the affected area, applying cold compresses to relieve pain, cleaning of wounds, etc. Severe cases of cellulitis infection may require intravenous therapy too. Pain relief medications may also be administered, but severe pain is considered as a symptoms of necrotizing fasciitis, a complication caused by cellulitis and needs immediate surgical repair. With antibiotic therapy, cellulitis of the legs may disappear within a week, but severe cases need more time for complete cure. Cellulitis skin infection may cause severe debility or even death, if left untreated. If it is not completely cured, the person may get affected repeatedly. There are many herbal and homeopathic medicines, which are also found to be effective in treating cellulitis, but such treatments should be taken from a qualified practitioner. Read more on cellulitis infection: Is cellulitis contagious.

Now, you know about the causes, symptoms and treatment of cellulitis of the legs. You can also prevent this skin disorder by boosting your immune system and practicing proper hygienic practices. Wounds should be cleaned properly and dressed to prevent this infection. Above all, approach a doctor as soon as you develop the symptoms and prevent it from spreading by means of proper and timely treatment.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and should not be used as a replacement for expert medical advice. Visiting your physician is the safest way to diagnose and treat any health condition.