Cellulitis
Cellulitis is a common but potentially serious bacterial skin infection that affects the deeper layers of the skin and underlying tissue. It typically appears as a red, swollen area that feels hot and tender to the touch.
Overview
Cellulitis is a common but potentially serious bacterial skin infection that affects the deeper layers of the skin and underlying tissue. It typically appears as a red, swollen area that feels hot and tender to the touch.
Symptoms
Click any symptom to analyzeCauses
- •Staphylococcus (staph) bacteria entering the skin
- •Streptococcus (strep) bacteria entering the skin
- •Cuts, scrapes, or insect bites
- •Surgical incision sites
Risk factors
- •Skin injuries or breaks in the skin
- •Weakened immune system
- •Chronic skin conditions like eczema or athlete's foot
- •Chronic swelling (lymphedema) in arms or legs
- •Diabetes
How it progresses
3 stages- Stage 1 — EarlyMild or intermittent symptoms; easily mistaken for something minor.Often missed
- Stage 2 — ProgressiveSymptoms become more frequent or severe.
- Stage 3 — EstablishedDaily life affected; medical care strongly recommended.
How it's diagnosed
- •Physical examination of the skin
- •Medical history review
- •Blood tests to check for infection
- •Skin or wound cultures
Treatment options
General educational information only — no dosage advice. Always follow guidance from a qualified clinician.
- •Oral antibiotics for mild to moderate cases
- •Intravenous (IV) antibiotics for severe infections
- •Pain relievers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen
- •Management of underlying skin conditions
- •Keeping the affected area clean and dry
- •Elevating the limb to reduce swelling
- •Taking prescribed antibiotics for the full duration
- •Applying a cool, damp cloth for comfort
Complications
- •Long-term damage if untreated
- •Skin infection
- •Scarring
- •Chronic itch
- •Recurrence of cellulitis
Prevention
- •Use sunscreen daily
- •Moisturize regularly
- •Avoid known irritants
When to seek help
- •Symptoms persist beyond a few days
- •Symptoms interfere with daily activities
- •New or worsening symptoms appear
- •Concerning changes related to cellulitis
- High fever or chills
- Rapidly spreading redness
- Dizziness or confusion
- Numbness or tingling in the affected area
- Red streaks extending from the infection site
In any emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department.
Real-world questions
- ›Can Cellulitis cause headaches?
- ›Is Cellulitis reversible?
- ›How quickly does Cellulitis progress?
- ›Is Cellulitis hereditary?
- ›Can Cellulitis be prevented?
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Frequently asked questions
Possible causes of Cellulitis include Staphylococcus (staph) bacteria entering the skin, Streptococcus (strep) bacteria entering the skin, Cuts, scrapes, or insect bites, Surgical incision sites.
Cellulitis can be serious and may require prompt medical attention, especially if symptoms are severe or worsening.
Duration varies between individuals. Many cases improve with appropriate care, while others may persist longer and require ongoing management.
Cellulitis typically benefits from medical evaluation and should not be ignored.
Consider seeing a clinician if symptoms are severe, persistent, worsening, or if you have any concerns related to general.
Sources
Information based on general medical references such as:
Last reviewed: May 2026