Cellulitis

Cellulitis is an inflammatory condition of the skin and fat tissue (subcutaneous tissue). Cellulitis can occur on any part of the body, but there are more reported cases in the lower limbs. Cellulitis is caused by bacteria. The two most common bacteria that causes cellulitis are streptococci and staphylococci and normally found on the surface of the surface of the skin. The bacteria causing cellulitis has to have a route of entering into the skin which is normally caused by a break in the skin such as an ulcer, a burn, a bite, a graze to the skin, a cut and sometimes skin conditions such as eczema, athlete's foot or psoriasis. However, bacteria may also enter the body through the blood or the lymphatic system. Cellulitis is more common in patients with breaks in their skin. The break in the skin allows an opening for the bacteria to enter. Also, patients who have lymphedema are also at higher risk. This is due to the patient’s constant skin changes and excessive edema. Although symptoms can occur in any part of the body it is most commonly found in the lower limbs of the body. The affected area will normally become warm to the touch, tender and inflamed, swollen, red and can be very painful. The person infected may also have symptoms such as fever, chills and nausea. Sometimes the lymph glands may become swollen and …show more content…
Knowing the difference between the type of bacteria can make a huge difference in whether it may be life threatening to an individual or not. People should not take cellulitis lightly and should consider seeking medical attention if they have any of the symptoms. Cellulitis can reoccur and if we are educated enough about it we can catch it in the early stages and hopefully resolve this infection before it causes extreme damage. By doing this, it may save the patient and the doctor a lot of time and save the patient unnecessary