Cellulitis is a fairly common type of skin infection. This infection is usually caused by either a Staphylococcus or Streptococcus bacteria. The bacteria enter the skin through cuts, wounds, bruises, surgical incisions or other causes that disrupt the integrity of the skin barrier.
Is cellulitis dangerous?
When cellulitis is localized to the skin, it is rarely dangerous. The infection will cause local skin irritation, pain, redness and swelling but will likely stop with these. Cellulitis is not actually a life-threatening condition. However, fatal cellulitis can occur when the infection enters the bloodstream.
How can cellulitis spread?
Cellulitis can spread when the infection penetrates deeper skin structures. Usually, the first structure affected is the fascia, a shiny membrane covering and protecting the muscle fibers. When cellulitis reaches the deeper fascial layers, it can cause necrosis or “death” of the muscle tissue. Cellulitis can also spread through the bloodstream. When local skin cuts go deeper, the bacteria causing the cellulitis may join the blood and multiply there.
This could lead to poisoning of the blood in a sense. Since the blood travels throughout the body, the infection could extend to other body parts and organs as well. Apart from spreading via the bloodstream, cellulitis spread could also be the result of the infection affecting nearby or adjacent organs. For example, cellulitis in the exterior eyelid could spread to the nearest organ which is the eyeball. Since the eye is a vital organ, the person will be greatly affected due to the spread of infection. When cellulitis has spread, it becomes difficult to treat.
How can you keep cellulitis from reaching a life-threatening state?
The best way to avoid getting cellulitis is still prevention through proper hygiene and skin care. Avoid adding trauma to your skin and consult a physician if a cut or break in the skin causes symptoms of infection. Be aware of the signs and symptoms of infection such as redness, itching, swelling, pain, fever and a loss or decrease in body function of the infected part. Take antibiotics as ordered by your doctor and always keep a healthy lifestyle.
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About the Author
Allan Tan is the co-founder of Cellulitis Symptoms . He provides more helpful information on orbital cellulitis and cellulitis in lower leg that you can read up in the comfort of your home on his website.
