Cellulitis is a common skin infection that is most commonly caused by either Staphylococcus or Streptococcus bacteria. Both of these bacteria occur naturally on the skin. A break or cut in the skin allows an avenue for the bacteria to enter the body, which leads to an active infection. Cellulitis most often occurs from:
- cracking or peeling skin between the toes,
- insect bites or stings, and
- a skin cut, break or trauma.
Cellulitis appears as a swollen red area of skin that is tender and hot to the touch. Symptoms may include chills, fever, muscle ache, fatigue, and pain or tenderness in an area with a skin rash or sore. The redness increases in size as the infection spreads. It typically comes on suddenly and spreads quickly. Cellulitis can arise anywhere on the body, but often appears on the face or legs. Be sure to contact your dermatologist as soon as you observe these symptoms to start an effective treatment.
To prevent cellulitis, be sure to clean any cut or break in the skin promptly with soap and water and cover the wound with antibiotic ointment and a bandage until it heals. Watch for signs of a developing infection or cellulitis, such as an enlarging area of redness, warmth to the touch, drainage, or pain.