What bacteria cause cellulitis?

These bacteria can enter through a cut, crack, bite, ulcer, surgical wound, or irritated area between the toes. A skin condition such as Athlete's Foot can create small breaks that are easy to overlook. The infection affects deeper layers of skin and nearby tissue, so the area may become warm, tender, red, and swollen. The appearance alone cannot identify the exact bacterium. A clinician considers the location, speed of change, wound history, previous infections, and general health when deciding whether testing or treatment is needed.

Arrange a medical assessment when a red, warm, painful, or swollen area is spreading or accompanied by feeling unwell. Keep any wound clean and covered, avoid squeezing or scratching the skin, and note when the changes began. Tell the clinician about recent bites, injuries, procedures, water exposure, allergies, and medicines. Do not use leftover antibiotics or share someone else's prescription; the right medicine depends on the suspected bacteria, infection site, and your health history.

Seek urgent help if redness is advancing quickly, pain is severe or out of proportion, the skin develops blisters or dark areas, or you feel faint, confused, very weak, or short of breath. Fever with a rapidly worsening skin infection also needs prompt attention. People with Type 2 Diabetes, poor circulation, or reduced immunity may need earlier review because skin infections can become more difficult to control. Emergency assessment is needed if there are signs that the infection may be spreading through the body, including possible Sepsis.

Ask which bacteria are most likely in your situation, whether a wound sample is useful, how to mark or monitor the edge of redness, and what improvement should look like after treatment begins. Also ask how to care for the entry point and what to do if symptoms continue or return.