What should you know about repeated cellulitis?

Cellulitis is a bacterial infection affecting deeper skin and soft tissue. Recurrence may happen when bacteria enter through cracked skin, a wound, swelling or a fungal infection between the toes. Lymphatic drainage problems, eczema and conditions such as type 2 diabetes can also affect skin protection or healing. A similar-looking rash is not always cellulitis, so each episode should be assessed rather than assumed to be the same problem.

Keep a record of the location, speed of spread, fever, pain and treatment response. This helps a clinician decide whether the infection is recurring in one area or whether another skin problem is being mistaken for it.

Wash and dry the skin gently, moisturise dry or cracked areas and cover cuts with a clean dressing. Check between the toes for scaling or splits and seek advice for suspected athlete's foot. Avoid scratching, share no towels and wear well-fitting footwear. If you have leg swelling, ask about measures that are safe for you. Take antibiotics exactly as prescribed and complete the course unless the prescriber changes it; do not use leftover medication for a new episode.

Seek same-day medical care for skin that is rapidly becoming red, hot, swollen or painful, especially with fever or feeling unwell. Go to emergency care for confusion, extreme weakness, breathing difficulty, faintness or rapidly worsening illness, which can signal sepsis. People with diabetes, poor circulation or reduced immunity should seek advice early because infection can progress without obvious skin changes.

Ask whether each episode is definitely cellulitis, what may be allowing bacteria through the skin and whether athlete's foot, swelling or diabetes needs treatment. Discuss a prevention plan, warning signs, wound care and whether specialist review is appropriate if infections keep returning.