Cellulitis is the inflammation of the tissues and layers of the skin or any part of the body. Cellulitis mostly occurs in the skin where there had been previous wounds such as blisters, boils, burns, cuts and cracks, which eventually result in a reddish swelling and occurrence of rashes.
Bacteria Causing Cellulitis
The causes of cellulitis are mainly the two bacteria present in the outer part of the skin—the Staphylococcus and the Streptococcus bacteria. They are not harmful while they are at the surface of the skin. However, once onside they pose a huge amount of threat. In severe cases, there might be a need for admission to the hospital or even a surgery. Deep infections that are sometimes caused by some flesh-eating bacteria called the Necrotizing fasciitis, can rapidly spread throughout the body and require immediate and more aggressive medical treatment. Almost all bacteria, once inside the body, can spread rapidly through veins and bloodstreams so urgent attention is needed once a patient experiences any of the cellulitis symptoms.
How to Prevent Cellulitis
Preventing cellulitis is not a very difficult task to do. Always remember what doctors’ say, “Prevention is better than cure” – and it is a lot cheaper too! Since cellulitis is mainly caused by the bacteria entering the skin by way of wounds and cracks, there is a need for immediate and consistent attention to any type of wound or skin problem. Wounds, no matter how small it is, should be cleaned and bandaged correctly. Regular changing of the bandage or dressing, especially when they are exposed to dirt or moisture, will help lessen the occurrence of cellulitis. Always book an appointment with your doctor when the wound is deep or when there is a characteristic of any infection.
Treatments for Cellulitis
Treating cellulitis is mostly done through antibiotics since there is an infection of a foreign body but certain first aid measures can be done at home before your appointment with your doctor. Ample rest for the infected area is needed and consistent cleaning of the wound is also necessary to prevent further infections. For mild cases oral antibiotics is prescribed while for moderate cases, these oral antibiotics are sometimes coupled with intravenous fluids and medicines depending on the need. Severe cases, however, require immediate medical attention and may even result to surgery.
