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Cellulitis, Skin Infection And Cure

Cellulitis is a bacterial infection of the skin and tissues beneath the skin. It generally affects the lower legs or the area if broken skin or cut. This generally begins as a small area of tenderness, swelling and redness that spreads to adjacent skin. As this red area begins to enlarge, the affetced person may develop swollen lymph nodes(swollen glands) near the infected area or fever and constant sweating.

Unlike other skin infections like impetigo, cellulitis involves the skin's deeper layers, the dermis and subcutaneous tissue. Hemophilus, influenzae, staph and clostridium bacterias attact leads to this skin infection.

Areas: Types of this infection are divided on the basis of infected body area. Facial cellulitis, breast or orbital cellulitis, hand or arm and perianal cellulitis to name a few.

Causes:

  • Injuries that break the skin
  • Any skin cut which gives path to allow bacteria to invade the skin.
  • Bone infection underneath the skin like a wound which is deep enough expose the bone to bacteria.

Symptoms:

  • Redness of skin
  • Swelling in the red areas
  • Pain or tenderness
  • Secretion of yellow clear fluid or pus from the cut
  • Tender or swollen lymph nodes near the affected area
  • Fever can occur if it spreads through blood.

Cure:

The best way to cure the infection is through antibiotics. The condition is not directly contagious. Immediate medical attention is requires as it spreads fast if left untreated. It is very important to konw if the infected is suffering from any allergy on penicillin an ingredient in the medicines used to cure this bacterial infection.

Protect the skin cut or bruise area next time and cover it to escape the bacteria invasion. Wash the area with antiseptic liquids and apply prescribed creams to avoid getting this skin infection.

Story first published: Wednesday, July 13, 2011, 15:12 [IST]
Read more about: skin care infection treatment