Do I Have Cellulitis?

Do you have a red rash on your skin that has a tendency to spread?

Do you have swelling in the affected area?

Do you have tenderness or pain in the affected area?

Does your skin feel warm when you touch it, in the affected area?

Do you have skin changes usually only on one side of the body?

Do you have fever, chills and cold sweats?

Do you have red spots, blisters or dimpling on your skin?

Do you have enlarged and tender lymph nodes (lymphadenitis)?

Have you recently had a cut, fracture, burn or scrape or perhaps insect bites to that area?

Are you overweight?

Have you had cellulitis before?

Do you have diagnosis of diabetes, leukemia or HIV?

Do you have chronic swelling of your arms or legs (lymphedema)?

Do you have another skin condition such as eczema, psoriasis, athlete's foot or scabies?

Based on your answers it is unlikely that you have cellulitis. Cellulitis is a bacterial skin infection that usually affects the skin on the lower legs, but can also appear on your arms, face and other areas. To prevent cellulitis it is important to take good care of your skin especially if you have a wound on your skin. In that case, the wound should be washed regularly with soap and water, and a protective cream or ointment should be applied to it. Cover the wound with a bandage and change the bandages at least once a day. Pay attention to the possible signs of infection - if you notice redness, pain or drainage seek medical attention immediately.

Based on your answers there is a possibility that you have cellulitis. Cellulitis is a medical condition that represents bacterial skin infection, usually caused by streptococcus and staphylococcus. Animal bites can also be the cause of cellulitis. Your skin could be easily contaminated with bacteria if you have areas of cracked, dry or damaged skin. Bacteria can spread quickly throughout your body, so it's important to start treatment as soon as possible. Cellulitis treatment includes prescribed antibiotics. In mild cases, therapy with oral antibiotics will give results after a few days, but people with severe cellulitis will receive antibiotics intravenously (through a vein).

Based on your answers there is a high possibility that you have cellulitis. Cellulitis is a common bacterial infection of the skin and the soft tissues under the skin. Bacterial infection can be spread rapidly, so prompt diagnosis and treatment are extremely important. Cellulitis is treated with antibiotics. Some people can have repeated episodes of cellulitis, which can result in damage to the lymphatic drainage system causing the affected leg or arm to become chronically swollen. Also, people with diabetes must take additional precautions to prevent skin injuries because superficial skin infections can easily spread, which can cause complications. Please, talk to your doctor regarding your symptoms.