What should you know about penyakit cellulitis?

Cellulitis often starts when bacteria enter through a cut, crack, bite, ulcer, or other break in the skin. The affected area may feel hot, tender, tight, or increasingly painful, and the border can expand. Some people develop fever or feel generally unwell. Athlete’s foot can create cracks between the toes that provide an entry point, while diabetes and circulation or immune problems can increase concern.

Cellulitis is different from a mild surface irritation because infection can extend through tissue. A photo or message alone may not distinguish it from an abscess, allergic reaction, or another cause of redness, so an examination is useful.

Arrange prompt medical assessment for a new, warm, painful, or spreading red area, especially after an injury or when you have diabetes. A clinician may prescribe antibiotics and will explain how to take them. Keep the area clean, avoid squeezing it, rest the affected limb when advised, and mark or photograph the edge only if the clinician recommends monitoring its spread.

Complete prescribed treatment unless the prescriber changes it, and report lack of improvement or worsening. Check feet for cracks and treat [Athlete’s Foot](/conditions/athletes-foot/) with professional guidance if present. Do not share leftover antibiotics or use them for an undiagnosed rash.

Seek urgent medical help if redness spreads quickly, pain is severe or out of proportion, skin becomes dusky or blistered, or you feel faint, confused, very weak, or short of breath. Fever with a rapidly worsening skin infection needs urgent assessment. These can be warning signs of a serious infection, including [Sepsis](/conditions/sepsis/), and should not wait for a routine appointment.

Ask what may have allowed bacteria to enter, whether an abscess or foreign body is possible, how to care for the area, and when improvement should begin. Mention diabetes, immune conditions, recent travel, allergies, previous cellulitis, and every medicine you take.