Cellulitis is a serious skin infection that requires prompt medical attention to prevent complications.

Health · Published 3 October 2026 Swipe more like this →

In short: Cellulitis is a bacterial infection of the deeper skin layers that can turn life-threatening if ignored. While often appearing as red, swollen, and painful skin, it requires immediate antibiotic treatment. Understanding how this condition progresses—and when to seek emergency care—is essential for preventing the infection from spreading internally.

Cellulitis occurs when bacteria penetrate the deeper layers of the skin, often through small, unnoticed breaks like cuts, insect bites, or dry, cracked skin. It is not contagious between people, but certain factors increase individual risk, including poor circulation, obesity, diabetes, and weakened immune systems. While it can affect any part of the body, it is most frequently found on the lower limbs. Symptoms typically include localized pain, heat, swelling, and redness, though the latter may be less visible on darker skin tones.

Treatment usually involves a course of antibiotic tablets, typically lasting one week. Patients are advised to keep the affected area elevated, stay hydrated, and manage pain with paracetamol or ibuprofen. If the infection is severe, hospital referral may be necessary. It is critical to complete the full course of antibiotics even after symptoms subside to ensure the infection is cleared. In some cases, recurring cellulitis may require long-term, low-dose antibiotic therapy to prevent future episodes.

Failure to treat cellulitis promptly can lead to the infection spreading to the blood, muscles, or bones. Emergency medical attention is required if symptoms escalate to include a very high temperature, confusion, dizziness, rapid breathing, or the appearance of purple patches on the skin. These signs indicate potentially life-threatening complications. Beyond cellulitis, skin infections encompass a wide range of conditions, including fungal infections like ringworm and parasitic infestations, each requiring distinct diagnostic approaches and management strategies to avoid long-term tissue damage.

General information, not professional advice. Spotted an error? Flag the card or see corrections and complaints.

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