What should you know about tell me about cellulitis?

It can begin through a small cut, crack, bite, ulcer or irritated area that lets bacteria enter. The affected skin may feel hot, tight or painful, and the edge of redness can expand. It commonly affects a leg but can occur anywhere, including the face. Athlete's Foot, swelling, skin breaks and Type 2 Diabetes can increase vulnerability. A clinician usually diagnoses cellulitis by examining the skin and asking about its speed of change; other problems can resemble it.

Arrange same-day medical assessment for suspected cellulitis because treatment may require prescribed antibiotics. Keep the area clean, avoid squeezing or scratching it, and rest or raise an affected limb when practical. Marking the outer edge of redness with a pen can help show whether it is spreading, but it does not replace assessment. Take the prescribed course exactly as directed and contact the clinician if symptoms worsen or do not begin to improve as expected.

Seek emergency care for rapidly spreading redness, severe pain, confusion, faintness, breathing difficulty, a very high temperature, blistering, skin discolouration or swelling around the eye. Fever with worsening skin symptoms also needs prompt attention. A serious infection can progress to Sepsis, so do not wait for a routine appointment when you feel acutely unwell.

Ask where the infection is located, which treatment is needed, how to protect the skin barrier, and which changes should trigger urgent review.