What should you know about cellulitis in people with diabetes?

Cellulitis is an infection in deeper layers of skin and the tissues beneath it. The affected area may become red, warm, swollen, tender, and larger over time. Diabetes can reduce sensation in the feet, alter circulation, and make a small crack, blister, or wound harder to notice or heal.

A clinician may examine the skin, check circulation and sensation, and assess blood glucose alongside the infection. Treatment can include prescribed antibiotics and wound care; the choice depends on the site, severity, allergies, and other health factors.

Arrange same-day medical advice for a new warm, expanding, painful, or swollen area, or for drainage from a foot wound. Do not squeeze the area or apply irritating products. Keep any wound covered as instructed, check the surrounding skin, follow antibiotic directions, and continue diabetes medicines unless your clinician tells you otherwise.

Go to urgent care for fever, chills, confusion, severe weakness, fast-spreading redness, red streaks, severe pain, black or pale skin, or a foot wound with deep tissue visible. Emergency help is needed for breathing difficulty or collapse.

Ask how far the infection extends, how to check the area when sensation is reduced, when improvement should be reviewed, and whether your glucose plan or foot-care routine needs adjustment.