Cellulitis is a bacterial infection of the skin that commonly affects the arms & legs but it can affect any part of the body. It can affect the skin and the tissues beneath causing pain, tenderness, edema, fluid filled blisters, etc. Anyone can get affected by cellulitis though children and individuals with weakened immunity are more likely to get affected.
For expert care and advanced treatment options, consult the top dermatologists at CK Birla Hospital.
Cellulitis is a bacterial skin infection that leads to swelling and inflammation of the skin. A break in the skin allows the bacteria to enter leading to cellulitis. If left untreated the infection can spread to the lymph nodes and bloodstream and rapidly become life-threatening.
Facial Cellulitis: This type of cellulitis occurs on the skin of the face. This type of cellulitis is mostly common in children and older adults.
Breast Cellulitis: Cellulitis occurs on the breasts, particularly in women who are breastfeeding or have had breast-conserving surgery.
Perianal Cellulitis: This type of cellulitis develops around the anal orifice.
Periorbital Cellulitis: Such type of cellulitis affects the skin and tissues around the eyes.
Medications: Treatment through the use of medications and antibiotics. Medications are usually preferred for mild to moderate cases.
Warm Compress Therapy: Treatment involves using warm compresses to the affected area to reduce swelling & improve blood flow.
Compression: Treatment through the use of compression wraps or stockings to reduce swelling.
Non-steroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs): Treatment through NSAIDs helps reduce inflammation and pain.
Medications: Costs around ₹500 to ₹3,000, depending on the medication and brand
Compression: Compression stockings or bandages can range from ₹500 to ₹2,000, depending on the type and brand.
Non-steroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs): Generally costs ₹100 to ₹500, depending on the specific medication and brand.
Note: The above costs are approximate and can vary based on factors such as the severity of the infection, the specific treatment plan, the healthcare facility, and geographic location.
Maintain Good Hygiene: Frequently clean the wounds or sores with antibacterial soap & water.
Avoid Touching: Refrain from touching the wounds or rubbing the affected areas.
Use Recommended Ointments:Regularly apply ointments and creams on your wounds or sores.
Monitor Symptoms:Keep track of signs and get immediate medical attention for any deep cuts or wounds.
For accurate detection of cellulitis, a thorough medical examination by a dermatologist is essential. The doctor may recommend the following:
No, cellulitis is not contagious and cannot be spread from person-to-person skin-to-skin contact.
Untreated cellulitis infection can spread to other body parts causing sepsis, osteomyelitis, bacteremia, etc.
Cellulitis is a bacterial skin infection that commonly affects the lower body part including the leg.
Yes, if left untreated cellulitis can spread within the skin and also to the other parts of the body.
Treatment of cellulitis requires medical attention, however symptoms can be managed by elevating the affected area, applying warm compresses, taking pain medication, etc.
Yes, an insect bite can lead to cellulitis.
Yes, people with diabetes are at higher risk of developing cellulitis.
Recovery from cellulitis can take 1 to 2 weeks.
No, cellulitis is not a sexually transmitted infection (STI).