Cellulitis is usually caused by a bacterial infection. Group A streptococcus and staphylococcus aureus (‘staph’) are the most common bacteria involved. These bacteria normally live on your skin without causing any harm, but if your skin is broken they can infect your tissues and cause cellulitis. The infection usually happens when bacteria enter your skin through an ulcer, cut, scratch or insect bite. It can also happen if you already have a skin problem like eczema, psoriasis, scabies or acne, or after surgery. However, it may happen without any visible damage to your skin.
A common cause of cellulitis is scratching your skin with dirty fingernails that carry bacteria.
You’re more likely to get cellulitis if you have a skin condition that makes you itchy and are more likely to scratch. You’re also more likely to get cellulitis if you:
smoke
live with obesity
have diabetes
have poor circulation or a weakened immune system
have swelling in an arm or leg, such as with lymphoedema
It often affects your lower leg but can occur anywhere on your body.
You may have cellulitis if you have an area of skin that is warm, red, tender and very painful.
If your infection is severe, you may also have symptoms like fever and nausea.
If you think you or someone in your care has cellulitis, it’s important to get medical attention as soon as possible.
How is cellulitis treated?
Cellulitis is usually treated with:
antibiotics
rest
elevating or raising the affected part of your body, if possible
(A client told me that the most effective antibiotic by far is the original penicillin, one not easily prescribed by doctors.)
While cellulitis is not generally contagious, it’s important to always wash your hands before and after touching the infected area.