Cellulitis

Not to be confused with cellulite which is a cosmetic issue relating to fatty deposits under the skin, cellulitis is a potentially serious skin infection of the deeper layers of the skin and underlying tissue. One of the main symptoms is the area turning red, swollen and hot. It is fairly uncommon but not rare, and can this condition can affect people of all ages. Cellulitis develops when the bacteria moves down the skins surface and enters the sub dermis through damaged or broken skin – usually through a cut, burn or bite. Risk factors for cellulitis include having a weakened immune system or suffereing from lymphoedema – a condition that causes swelling of the arms and legs. The outlook is best if this condition is diagnosed early and treated correctly. Treatment is usually with antibiotics. The most important thing with this condition is that it doesn’t trigger a secondary infection elsewhere in the body such as the blood. Talk to your videoDoc doctor if you are concerned about a swelling or red area on the skin.