What Does Painful Skin Feel Like With Cellulitis?

Cellulitis is an infection in deeper layers of skin and the tissue beneath. The affected area may feel warmer than nearby skin, look red or darker, and become tight or swollen. Pain can be sore, burning, or sensitive when clothing or light touch rubs the area.

The redness may enlarge over time and the edges may be difficult to distinguish. A break in the skin, insect bite, wound, or irritated area can provide an entry point, but the cause is not always obvious. Other rashes can look similar, so assessment is needed.

Arrange same-day medical advice for a new painful, warm, spreading red or swollen area. Marking the edge of visible redness and noting the time can help you describe whether it is expanding. Keep any wound gently clean and do not massage the area.

Take prescribed treatment exactly as directed and complete the course unless the prescriber changes it. Resting and elevating an affected limb may reduce swelling while you arrange care, but home measures do not replace assessment.

Seek urgent help if redness spreads quickly, pain is severe, fever or chills develop, you feel confused or faint, or swelling affects the face or area around an eye. New blisters, numbness, or difficulty moving the nearby limb also need prompt review.

How extensive does the infection appear? What treatment and follow-up do I need? Which change should prompt urgent reassessment?