Symptoms of cellulitis in the leg

Cellulitis is a deep skin infection that can start through a small cut, cracked skin, insect bite, ulcer, or another break in the skin. The affected area may become hot, tight, shiny, and increasingly sore. The edge of redness can be difficult to see on some skin tones, so compare both legs and notice changes in warmth, swelling, or pain. Athlete's Foot can create cracks between the toes that allow infection to enter. People with Type 2 Diabetes may need especially prompt assessment of a new foot or leg wound.

Arrange medical assessment promptly if redness, warmth, swelling, or pain is spreading. Keep the area clean, avoid squeezing or scratching it, and cover any open spot with a clean dressing. Resting the leg elevated can reduce discomfort from swelling. Do not share towels, and check the skin between the toes for cracks or scaling. A clinician may examine the skin, look for an entry point, and decide whether treatment for Cellulitis is needed.

Seek urgent medical help if the redness is rapidly expanding, pain is severe or out of proportion, the skin develops blisters or dark patches, or you feel faint, confused, very weak, or short of breath. Fever with worsening skin changes also needs prompt attention. These symptoms can signal a more serious infection, including Sepsis, and should not be monitored at home.

Ask what may have allowed the infection to start, whether the borders should be marked for monitoring, how to care for the skin while it heals, and which changes mean you should return urgently.