Recognizing Cellulitis: 7 Key Symptoms You Shouldn't Ignore
Published: Feb 17, 2024
Cellulitis can progress rapidly, making early recognition crucial for effective treatment. Knowing the signs and symptoms can help you seek medical attention promptly and prevent potential complications.
Contents
Skin Changes: The First Signs
The most noticeable symptoms of cellulitis involve changes to the affected skin. Look for redness (erythema) that may start small but can spread quickly. The area will typically feel warm to the touch and appear swollen or puffy. Unlike a simple bruise, cellulitis often causes the skin to feel tight or stretched.
Pain and Tenderness
Pain is a common symptom of cellulitis. The affected area may be tender to touch, and you might experience a throbbing or burning sensation. Some people describe the pain as feeling similar to a pulled muscle. As the infection progresses, the pain may intensify or spread to a larger area.
Systemic Symptoms
Cellulitis doesn't just affect the skin; it can cause whole-body symptoms too. You might develop a fever, often accompanied by chills or sweating. Fatigue is common, and you may feel generally unwell or run down. In some cases, you might experience nausea or loss of appetite. Swollen lymph nodes near the infected area are another sign your body is fighting the infection.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, bacteria can enter through tiny, invisible skin breaks.
Symptoms can develop within hours of bacterial entry.
Most cases are painful, but severity varies.
Yes, it can be mistaken for conditions like DVT.
Key Takeaways
Cellulitis symptoms can vary, but any combination of skin changes, pain, and systemic symptoms warrants medical evaluation.
If you're experiencing symptoms that might indicate cellulitis, don't wait - reach out to Doctronic for prompt assessment and guidance on the next steps.Related Articles
References
Raff AB, Kroshinsky D. Cellulitis: A Review. JAMA. 2016;316(3):325-337.
Stevens DL, et al. Practice guidelines for the diagnosis and management of skin and soft tissue infections: 2014 update by the Infectious Diseases Society of America. Clin Infect Dis. 2014;59(2):e10-e52.
Always discuss health information with your healthcare provider.