Cellulitisis a common infection of the skin, almost always triggered by bacteria.
Cellulitis can cause redness, skin swelling, pain, heat at the site, and possibly fever.
Antibiotics are used to treat cellulitis but it’s common for an infection to relapse (recur).
Illustration by Alexandra Gordon for Verywell Health
It can also cause the skin to blister and peel.
Additional symptoms also include:
Cellulitis is a serious bacterial infection of the skin.
If left untreated, cellulitis can spread and cause complications.
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If you have symptoms of cellulitis, see your healthcare provider.
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Who’s at Risk for Cellulitis?
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Certain conditions can increase the risk of cellulitis.
There are a few rare causes of less common types of cellulitis.
They can include:
Surgery can lead to cellulitis, even rare types like mycobacterial infections.
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Those at risk may require different antibiotics upfront, even though most cellulitis cases are brought on by eitherStaphorStrepinfections.
Most people get better quickly and do not require hospitalization.
A healthcare provider may mark the borders of the infection to monitor its growth.
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Cellulitis often occurs due to another underlying condition.
Treatment for cellulitis also includes treatment of the underlying condition.
Complications
Several complications may arise as a result of cellulitis.
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When to Seek Urgent Care
Cellulitis can be an urgent medical concern.
Keep in mind that older people may be more at risk for infection.
Underlying health conditions also can contribute to the need for urgent care.
Summary
Cellulitis is a skin infection that comes on quickly and can turn serious.
A Word From Verywell
Cellulitis is a common and potentially dangerous skin infection.
All cuts, abrasions, and bug bites should be cleaned and dressed with a band-aid and antibiotic ointment.
If swelling, redness, warmth to the touch, or pain occurs, seek medical evaluation.
When recognized early, treatment can be successful with oral antibiotics.
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